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Prognostic factors in the treatment of carpal scaphoid non-unions

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Abstract

In this literature review, the authors analyse the prognostic factors in the curative treatment of scaphoid non-unions. The main negative prognostic factors are smoking, the time elapsed since the fracture, and avascular necrosis of the proximal fragment. If the latter is present, the revascularization by a pedicle or microsurgical bone autograft is probably the treatment of choice. In non-unions without evidence of osteonecrosis, vascularized bone grafts are probably not superior to conventional bone grafts, which can presently be performed under arthroscopic control, with minimal morbidity.

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Schuind, F., Moungondo, F. & El Kazzi, W. Prognostic factors in the treatment of carpal scaphoid non-unions. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 27, 3–9 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-016-1886-4

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