OVERVIEW
Carpal fractures are typically the result of trauma, and these fractures can have an impact on our ability to perform everyday tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the specifics of carpal fractures, examining their causes, symptoms, available treatment options in Singapore, and preventative measures you can take to avoid them.
UNDERSTANDING CARPAL FRACTURES
A carpal fracture refers to the breakage of one or more bones in the wrist area. These bones are mostly responsible for the flexibility and stability of the wrist joint. There are several types of carpal fractures, classified based on the location and nature of the breakage:
SCAPHOID FRACTURES
The scaphoid bone is the most commonly fractured carpal bone in Singapore. It is located on the base of the thumb and is most prone to injury during falls.
HAMATE FRACTURES
The hamate bone is located on the pinky side of the wrist, and such fractures can cause pain and discomfort particularly when gripping objects.
TRIQUETERAL FRACTURES
The triquetral bone is located on the ulnar side of the wrist and is often associated with other additional injuries to the wrist. These fractures can be a consequence of direct trauma or a fall.
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CARPAL FRACTURES
You may be suffering from carpal fractures if you experience:
Intense pain at the site of the fracture
Swollen and/or bruised wrist
Difficulty in moving the wrist and hand
Tenderness and sensitivity around the fracture site
HOW ARE CARPAL FRACTURES DIAGNOSED?
Our carpal fracture diagnosis involves a thorough physical assessment by Dr. Jonathan Lee to evaluate the extent of your injury. During this assessment, we will enquire about your medical history, and circumstances leading to the injury, as well as looking for signs of swelling, bruising, tenderness, and deformity.
To confirm the presence of a carpal fracture and to understand its severity, imaging tests such as X-rays will also be employed. In complicated cases, a CT Scan or an MRI may be recommended by our doctor, particularly if soft tissue damage or ligament injuries are suspected in addition to the fracture.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR CARPAL FRACTURES
Non-surgical Treatment
Minor carpal fractures can often be managed with a cast or a splint to immobilise the wrist, allowing it to heal on its own.
SURGICAL treatment
In severe cases of carpal fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures range from the fixation of bones with screws to more complex surgeries, depending on the fracture's type and severity.
If wrist pain is affecting you, reach out for professional assistance and schedule a consultation with our hand surgeon, Dr. Jonathan Lee Yi-Liang. Having accumulated more than a decade of practice as a hand surgeon, he is dedicated to addressing hand and wrist conditions across all ages — find out more about Dr. Jonathan Lee here.
