How long does it take for a scaphoid fracture to show on X-ray?

In some cases, a scaphoid fracture will not show up on an X-ray until around 10-14 days after the initial injury. At this time, the healing process will have started in the bone, which will help the fracture site to show up.

Can a scaphoid fracture be missed on X-ray?

Scaphoid fracture is one of such injuries. It is the most common fracture in carpal bone. Most of the scaphoid fractures are missed on initial X-rays. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered as a gold standard for diagnosing scaphoid fractures.

How often are scaphoid fractures missed on X-ray?

Scaphoid tenderness was assessed and not found in 10 of 15 cases. No X-rays were obtained in 13 (25\%) cases, and a scaphoid fracture was only suspected, resulting in scaphoid series X-rays being performed, in only 3 (6\%) cases.

Can a wrist fracture be missed on an X-ray?

Doctors can usually recognize most fractures by examining the injury and taking X-rays. Sometimes an X-ray will not show a fracture. This is especially common with some wrist fractures, hip fractures (especially in older people), and stress fractures.

Can a scaphoid fracture heal in 4 weeks?

The majority heal uneventfully after four to six weeks of immobilization, depending on fracture type. In general, proximal scaphoid fractures should be treated with internal fixation.

Can you always see a scaphoid fracture?

Fractures of the scaphoid are not visible in about 16\% of cases on initial radiographs. Untreated, proven fractures of the scaphoid can lead to non-union, a vascular necrosis and advanced arthritis. It is for this reason that a number of these patients are over-treated to avoid under-treating a few.

What percentage of scaphoid fractures are missed?

1,2 Scaphoid fractures are the most problematic to diagnose in a clinical setting because it can take up to 6 weeks for scaphoid fractures to become conclusive on plain X-ray films. It is estimated that up to 40\% of scaphoid fractures are missed at first presentation.

Is it easy to miss a scaphoid fracture?

However, scaphoid fractures can be difficult to diagnose and are often missed on initial X-rays. If a scaphoid fracture is not identified in a timely fashion and is not treated for several weeks, the risk of non-union or delayed union increases.