Wrist Case 1 Background

The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone. Fractures typically result after a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH) injury because the scaphoid is the limiting factor to extension. During forced extension the proximal portion of the bone is trapped against the radius, while the distal portion continues to rotate, resulting in fracture. Only 3% of scaphoid fractures result from hyperflexion.