Bone
Scaphoid
Carpal link on the thumb side of the wrist
High-yield
It is the carpal bone fractured most often. Much of the proximal portion depends on blood flowing back through the bone from more distal entry sites, making some fracture patterns harder to heal.
Overview
This curved bone belongs to the proximal carpal row but reaches toward the distal row. It helps connect the two rows mechanically and lies beneath part of the hollow between the thumb tendons known as the anatomical snuffbox.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- A short bone in the carpus
- Key landmarks
- Narrow waist between proximal and distal poles; a tubercle projecting toward the palm
- Articulations
- Radius and lunate proximally or medially; capitate, trapezium and trapezoid toward the middle and distal wrist
Mnemonic
Read from the thumb side in both rows: proximal S-L-T-P; distal T-T-C-H. Expand each letter into the bone's name as you picture the two rows.
Clinical correlation
A fracture can disrupt blood flow to the proximal part and lead to bone death or failure to unite. Snuffbox tenderness raises suspicion, but examination and suitable imaging are needed to assess a possible fracture.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the scaphoid?
A short bone in the carpus.
What does the scaphoid articulate with?
Radius and lunate proximally or medially; capitate, trapezium and trapezoid toward the middle and distal wrist.
What are the key landmarks of the scaphoid?
Narrow waist between proximal and distal poles; a tubercle projecting toward the palm.