Description
In this presentation, trauma consultant Sam Molyneux discusses the implications of the recent SWIFT trial findings on the treatment of scaphoid waist fractures. He critiques the methods and outcomes of the trial, which compared surgical intervention through acute percutaneous fixation to traditional cast immobilization. Molyneux highlights the trial's significant results, noting that both treatment groups exhibited similar levels of wrist function and time off work at 52 weeks, challenging the conventional belief that early fixation is superior. He points out the high complication rates associated with surgery, particularly concerning screw protrusion, and reflects on the trial's exclusion of specific patient populations, emphasizing that certain active individuals may still benefit from surgical intervention. He concludes by asserting the need for thorough patient assessment and appropriate follow-up care to ensure optimal outcomes.
DOI: 10.1302/3114-210358