Abstract

We describe a method of treating scaphoid fractures with custom-made Silastic casts for competitive athletes. A retrospective review of 14 scaphoid fractures occurring in athletes competing in contact sports was completed to determine if effective immobilization could be maintained with this technique. The study covered a 10 year period with an average followup of 3.9 years (range 2 to 9 years). Ten of 11 middle third scaphoid fractures healed uneventfully. One nonunion occurred following a 7 week delay in diagnosis. Two of three proximal third scaphoid fractures went on to nonunion, while the third healed after a prolonged period of treatment. Our data indicate that nondisplaced middle third sacaphoid fractures can be effectively immobilized for competition in contact sports with the custom-made Silastic cast described. Verf.-Referat