Broken hand bone

Description

Scaphoid fracture or broken hand bone. Scaphoid bone is part of the hand, it is located in the bottom of the thumb and it is connected with the wrist. Scaphoid fracture is not always seen on X-rays. In many cases palpatory pain sensitivity (sensitivity to touch) in the root of the thumb (which is called anatomical snuffbox) leads a doctor to immobilize the thumb as it has been broken. Sometimes surgical intervention is needed to align the bones and screws and wires are placed until the bone heals. Serious cases may be accompanied with tendon, nerve or blood vessel injury.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, bruise on the skin, pain in movement, stiffness of the thumb, inability to move the thums, sensistivity in anatomical snuffbox.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. X-rays image confirms diagnosis.

Specialists

Orthopedic Surgery

Therapy

Most fractures are treated by splinting the thumb. The splint prevents broken edges of the bone to make moves which improves the recovery. Sometimes are placed a wire or screw to stabilize the bone while healing. Painkillers such paracetamol, ibuprofen (brufen) or naproxen may be taken. Opioid analgesics may also be prescribed. If the bone punctures the skin, the wound should be cleaned and antibiotics must be taken to prevent the infection.