Closed dislocation of the scaphoid. A case report and review of the literature.

A case of traumatic dislocation of the scaphoid bone treated by open reduction is reported. The bone remained vital, being nourished by a slender connection to the surrounding tissue. Experience from the few cases reported in the literature shows that closed reduction is often successful. If surgery is necessary it seems that it should be limited to simple reduction of the dislocation and that there is no need for primary arthrodesis or arthroplasty. Stable fixation is necessary to avoid re-dislocation and later wrist instability.