Clinical result of operative treatment for scaphoid non-union in the skeletally immature: percutaneous versus open procedure

This article is a retrospective study of 13 cases of scaphoid non-union in skeletally immature patients. For the fracture fixation, three cases of stable fibrous union with minimal sclerosis, without deformity or cystic changes were considered for the percutaneous Herbert screw fixation. Ten cases were managed with the open reduction and internal fixation with or without bone grafting. The average union time was 10.5 weeks post-operatively. The average union time was lesser in percutaneous Herbert screw fixation group (nine weeks) than open procedure group (11.5 weeks). All cases achieved union without any supplemental procedures. According to Cooney's clinical scoring, 12 cases were rated excellent result and one good result. The percutaneous Herbert screw fixation for scaphoid non-union in skeletally immature patients can be a good treatment option when it is fibrous union with no deformity.