Seeking Clarity on My Wrist Condition
I’ve been dealing with an untreated scaphoid fracture for the past two months. My orthopedic surgeon has postponed my surgery due to concerns about avascular necrosis (AVN) and has indicated that a graft wouldn't significantly improve my condition. For the time being, he has recommended physiotherapy, but ultimately, the long-term solution seems to be wrist fusion, which would limit my wrist movement to only up and down. I am reaching out to see if any orthopedic specialists could shed light on my situation with more clarity. Additionally, I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has gone through something similar.
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 1:20:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with your scaphoid fracture, especially with the potential for avascular necrosis. I can understand how this uncertainty about your treatment options and long-term outcomes can be concerning. It's essential to have clarity on your condition and the best paths forward.
Explanation
A scaphoid fracture can be tricky, especially if it's not healing well. The scaphoid bone is located in the wrist and has a limited blood supply, which is why there's a concern about AVN; this occurs when the blood supply is impaired, leading to the death of bone tissue. Your surgeon's recommendation for physiotherapy is likely aimed at maintaining some range of motion and strengthening your wrist while monitoring the fracture closely. If the bone doesn't heal properly, wrist fusion is a possible long-term solution, although it indeed restricts movement.
Next Steps
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Engage in Physiotherapy: Follow through with the physiotherapy regimen your orthopedic surgeon recommended. This can help maintain functionality and might promote healing.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, such as pain levels, swelling, or changes in wrist mobility. Document these changes, as they will be valuable for your healthcare provider in deciding next steps.
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Stay Informed: Seek a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist if you feel uncertain about your treatment plan. Getting additional insight can help clarify your options.
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Explore Support Groups: Consider looking for support groups or forums where individuals with similar experiences share their stories. Hearing about others' journeys can provide comfort and additional perspectives on coping and treatment.
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Discuss Alternatives: If surgery becomes necessary, ask your orthopedic team about any alternative procedures or advancements in treatment that may be available.
Remember that you're not alone in this; many people face similar challenges with scaphoid fractures or wrist issues. Your well-being and understanding of your condition are important, so don't hesitate to reach out for more information and emotional support.
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