Can we avoid casting for suspected scaphoid fractures? A multicenter randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In suspected scaphoid fractures with normal initial radiographs, the usual care is casting, but only 10% of patients have scaphoid fractures. To reduce overtreatment, we evaluated whether bandaging, instead of casting, resulted in noninferior functional outcomes.

Patients and methods

We included adults with suspected scaphoid fractures and normal initial radiographs at the emergency department in our multicenter randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized to 3-day bandaging or 2-week casting. Questionnaires, physical examination, and radiographs were performed at 2 weeks and 1 year. Additional questionnaires were sent after inclusion, 6 weeks, and 3 months. Our primary outcome was the adjusted estimated difference between groups of the Quick Disabilities

SUBMITTER: Cohen A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11883040 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature