SEARCH RESULTS FOR: Avascular-Necrosis-of-the-Scaphoid

Avascular Necrosis of the Scaphoid

Osteonecrosis of the Scaphoid (Avascular Necrosis): Pathogenesis and clinical findings The radial artery provides the primary blood supply to the scaphoid bone Blood flows to the distal end of the scaphoid and travels “retrograde” back along the bone towards the proximal end Poor blood supply may lead to incomplete healing of the fracture High risk of progressing to a non-union (non- healing) fracture Further ↑ risk of developing osteonecrosis (previously known as avascular necrosis) Trauma or injury to the wrist or hand Scaphoid fracture, most commonly at the thin middle third of the bone, known as the waist Retrograde blood supply to the proximal part of the scaphoid becomes disrupted Poor blood supply to the proximal scaphoid The body breaks down and absorbs necrotic bone tissue, commonly at the proximal part of the scaphoid with poor blood supply Structural integrity of the scaphoid bone weakens The scaphoid becomes more prone to collapse during normal wrist movement and the natural alignment of the carpal bones may become disrupted Prolonged disruption in blood and oxygen supply Ischemia of bone tissue Bone tissue necrosis Osteonecrosis (AVN) of the Scaphoid Disease resulting in death of bone tissue due to insufficient blood supply** Authors: Sydney Guderyan Reviewers: Mankirat Bhogal Michelle J. Chen Dr. Gerhard Kiefer * MD at time of publication Abnormal stress on the radiocarpal and intercarpal joints Progressive degenerative changes Proximal row collapse (proximal row of carpal bones destabilize) Imaging shows bone collapse, sclerosis, or cystic changes Tenderness at the anatomical snuffbox Pain & swelling on the radial side of the wrist ↓ Range of motion at the wrist ↓ Grip strength & wrist function Stiffness ** See corresponding Calgary Guide slide “Avascular Necrosis: Pathogenesis and Clinical Findings” End-stage osteoarthritis Legend: Pathophysiology Mechanism Sign/Symptom/Lab Finding Complications Published Dec 30, 2024 on www.thecalgaryguide.com