Found in the wrist, the scaphoid bone is about the size of a small nut, and is imperative for full wrist function. The largest of the carpal bones, the scaphoid is situated between the arm and the hand on the thumb side of the wrist and is rarely broken, but is the most commonly fractured bone in the wrist.

Scaphoid fractures can often be quite difficult to diagnose, and when this happens it means the injury is left without treatment, which can be detrimental to the wrists functionality as if the fracture isn't treated quickly and correctly then a more invasive remedy may be used which could have been avoided with a quick diagnosis.

The symptoms of a scaphoid fracture include swelling of the wrist, pain and stiffness; although confusion often arises as these are similar to the symptoms of a sprained wrist and so it is not uncommon for patients to assume that a simple sprain is what is causing their discomfort. X-ray is often used to identify scaphoid fractures, although it is not uncommon that they are not picked up on an initial X-ray, so if a fracture is suspected then best practice is to carry out a follow up X-ray ten days later.

The usual treatment for a scaphoid fracture is to set the wrist in a plaster cast for six weeks while the fracture repairs. However when a diagnosis has been delayed, or if this treatment has not been successful, then an operation may be required involving a bone graft or the use of metal pins to ensure the injury doesn't get worse and the bone has the best chance of repair.

The frequency with which scaphoid fractures are not correctly diagnosed has lead to an increase in medical negligence claims relating to this area. The long term health consequences of scaphoid fractures can often mean suffers have a reduced quality of life and are less able to do their jobs, meaning loss of earnings.