Measurement of Scaphoid Bone Microarchitecture: A Computed Tomography Imaging Study and Implications for Screw Placement

Abstract

Purpose: High bone density and quality is associated with improved screw fixation in fracture fixation. The objective of this study was to assess bone density and quality in the proximal and distal scaphoid to determine optimum sites for placement of 2 screws in scaphoid fracture fixation. Methods: Twenty-nine cadaveric human scaphoid specimens were harvested and scanned using micro–computed tomography. Bone density (bone volume fraction) and bone quality (relative bone surface area, trabecular number, and trabecular thickness) were evaluated in 4 quadrants within each of the proximal and distal scaphoid. Results: The proximal radial quadrant of the scaphoid had significantly greater bone vo..