What is a typical complication of an untreated scaphoid fracture?

• A. Radial nerve palsy
• B. Carpal tunnel syndrome
• C. Avascular necrosis
• D. Tenosynovitis

Answer: (C)

Atypical complication of an untreated scaphoid fracture is avascular necrosis. The scaphoid bone has a unique blood supply that is primarily derived from the radial artery. When a fracture occurs, especially in the middle or proximal portions of the bone, the blood supply can be disrupted, leading to a lack of adequate circulation. This interruption can compromise the viability of the bone, resulting in avascular necrosis, where the bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow.

The consequences of avascular necrosis can be severe, as it may lead to collapse of the bone, chronic pain, loss of function, and the development of arthritis in the wrist joint over time. This complication underscores the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of scaphoid fractures to maintain the health of the wrist and prevent long-term issues.

Other options listed are associated with different mechanisms or conditions that do not directly result from an untreated scaphoid fracture. For example, radial nerve palsy typically results from direct trauma or pressure on the nerve rather than from a scaphoid fracture. Carpal tunnel syndrome is related to median nerve compression, which is not directly caused by scaphoid fractures. Tenosynovitis would stem from inflammatory processes in the tend