Surgical outcomes of scaphoid fracture osteosynthesiswith magnesium screws

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the mid-term functionaland radiological outcomes of magnesium-based screws in thetreatment of scaphoid fractures. Patients and methods: Between February 2015 and February2018, a total of 21 patients (18 males, 3 females; mean age:28.5±5.8 years; range, 19 to 39 years) with acute scaphoid waistfractures who underwent fracture fixation with biologicallydegradable magnesium-based compression screws wereretrospectively analyzed. Fractures were classified accordingto the Herbert and Fisher classification. The absence of pain onpalpation and painless active range of motion were accepted asthe signs of union. Results: The mean follow-up was 43.3±5.3 (range, 36 to 52)months. According to the Herbert and Fisher classification,nine patients had type B1 and 12 patients had type B2 scaphoidfractures. Union was achieved in all cases. The mean timeto union was 11.2±1.5 (range, 9 to 14) weeks. The mean gripstrength, flexion, and extension were 43.57°, 73.57°, and 76.43°,respectively. The grip strength, pinch strength, and range ofmotion of the operated side were evaluated at the final follow-upvisit and compared with the contralateral side (control group). Nocomplication occurred. Any screw was not removed. Conclusion: Magnesium-based compression screws can be safelyused for acute scaphoid fractures considering their favorablefunctional and radiological results.