Surgical Information – Procedures

Scaphoid Fracture Open Reduction

Educational Videos

What is a scaphoid fracture open reduction?

Scaphoid fracture open reduction is a surgical procedure to stabilize a broken scaphoid, one of the small bones in the wrist located near the base of the thumb. In this procedure, the surgeon aligns the bone ends and inserts a metal screw to hold the scaphoid in place until the bone is fully healed. Occasionally, a bone graft is needed to aid healing. The graft is taken from the forearm or hip, placed between the broken scaphoid and secured with a metal screw, allowing the bones to fuse.


The wrist is a complex collection of joints and bones that allows us to use our hands in many ways. The small bones of the wrist (the carpal bones) connect the bones of the forearm (the radius and ulna) to the bones of the hand. The scaphoid is a carpal bone located at the base of the thumb, just above the radius bone.

When is surgery recommended?

Scaphoid fractures range from small cracks through the middle of the bone to complete separation of the bone into two pieces, called a displaced fracture. Scaphoid fracture open reduction is typically performed for displaced fractures. It is also sometimes recommended for non-displaced fractures that fail to heal in a cast.

What is the recovery time?

Following surgery, most patients spend several weeks in a cast or splint. Once the bones have healed, rehabilitation with a Certified Hand Therapist is recommended to strengthen and stabilize the muscles around the wrist joint, and improve hand dexterity. Full healing and return to activities or sports varies by patient and demand.