Case reports: osteonecrosis of the capitate: a pediatric case report.

We present what we think is the first documented occurrence of osteonecrosis of the capitate in a skeletally immature patient. Atraumatic osteonecrosis of the capitate is rare, and all reported cases have occurred in adults. Our pediatric patient was treated with observation and limited immobilization. He achieved a full recovery clinically and radiographically after 1 year. A review of the literature pertaining to osteonecrosis of the capitate also is provided.