Scaphoid injuries in children.

In order to establish an acceptable working protocol for the care of children with scaphoid injuries, an independent study was undertaken by the author. This paper describes the various aspects of this study: understanding what the scaphoid is and its function, the correct examination of the hand and wrist and the rationale behind it, the rationale behind the current treatment of suspected scaphoid injuries, and the development of the carpal bones and skeletal age. Opinions differ as to what age the scaphoid develops and therefore when it may be fractured, and so a review of research and literature on scaphoid injuries is also outlined.