Physeal-Sparing Medial Femoral Condyle Flap for Treatment of Scaphoid Nonunion With Avascular Necrosis in Skeletally Immature Patients: A Case Series With Long-Term Follow-Up.
Stephen Ali, Joshua Chew, Fraser Donaldson et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
Two skeletally immature patients with scaphoid nonunion underwent treatment using modified physeal-sparing medial femoral condyle (MFC) osseous flaps. The flaps were harvested while preserving the distal femoral physis and were secured with cannulated screws. Both patients achieved radiologic union within three months and reported significant improvement in wrist function, returning to pain-free activities at long-term follow-up.
What made this case unusual
The use of a physeal-sparing technique in skeletally immature patients is notable, as it mitigates the risk of damaging the distal femoral physis while addressing complex scaphoid nonunion.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider physeal-sparing techniques for treating scaphoid nonunion in skeletally immature patients to avoid complications related to growth disturbances.
Why it matters
This case highlights the potential for successful reconstruction of scaphoid nonunion in pediatric patients while preserving growth potential, emphasizing the need for careful patient selection.