Scaphoid tubercle fracture

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall on outstretched 4 weeks ago, with pain in the anatomical snuff box despite immobilization in plaster. Negative radiograph.

Patient Data

Age: 12 years
Gender: Female
mri

Bone marrow edema in the distal scaphoid with a fracture line on T1 imaging through the base of the tubercle.

Case Discussion

Fractures of the tubercle are much less common and carry less of a potential risk of non-union and avascular necrosis consistent with fractures through the waist. MRI is a very sensitive test for such fractures and will be abnormal almost immediately following injury.

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