AnatomyDeck

Bone

Scaphoid

Boat-shaped carpal bone

Upper limbSkeletal system

High-yield

Most fractured carpal bone; snuffbox tenderness. Retrograde blood supply risks avascular necrosis of the proximal pole.

Overview

The largest bone of the proximal carpal row, spanning both rows and forming the floor of the anatomical snuffbox. It is the most commonly fractured carpal bone.

Reference facts

  • Bone type

    Short (carpal)

  • Key landmarks

    Tubercle of scaphoid; Proximal and distal poles; Waist

  • Articulations

    Radius; Lunate; Capitate; Trapezium; Trapezoid

Clinical correlation

Scaphoid fracture may show avascular necrosis or non-union because its blood supply enters distally.

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