Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, an NABL & NABH-accredited diagnostic centre will be able to suggest advanced radiology & diagnostic imaging services and pinpoint the actual cause from which the symptoms arise and will ensure better treatment. This special wrist X-ray view displays the small carpal bone (scaphoid) closer to the base of the thumb. It is useful in the diagnosis of suspected and unstable scaphoid fractures, wrist injuries, and other bone abnormalities, which might not be readily apparent on standard wrist radiographs.
A scaphoid view is a specialised wrist X-ray projection designed to improve visualisation of the scaphoid bone. It may also show parts of the surrounding wrist structures. It plays an important role with regard to the stability and mobility of the wrist; wrist injury frequently occurs if someone falls on an outstretched hand. If the symptoms suggest pain or tenderness in the region of the base of the thumb following any trauma, the examination is useful. Sometimes, a special "scaphoid positioning" helps the bone to be better seen, and sometimes can be used to rule out a fracture or, at least, check on how the bone is aligned.
X-ray imaging is one of the bone scans that uses controlled amounts of radiation called X-rays to create an image of bones and joints. To get a good look at the scaphoid and its associated structures, the wrist/hand is positioned in such a way that a scaphoid view is achieved. Evaluation may reveal fractures, abnormalities of bone, and bone displacement. If the doctor feels that the patient's bone is broken but can't see it on the initial X-ray, he or she may repeat the X-ray, or may suggest an MRI scan, evaluation by computed tomography (CT) scan, or other imaging tests.
The dedicated view may also help diagnose scaphoid fracture following a history of fall or traumatic injury to the wrist. Fractures may not be apparent on the initial radiographs, and a high level of suspicion will warrant other imaging studies.
It helps assess the position and alignment of the scaphoid, a carpal bone on the thumb side of the wrist. This information may be helpful in the case they suspect a fracture or other injury.
The main focus of the examination is on the scaphoid; other carpal bones will only be seen partially. Other wrist views might be needed for detailed assessment of other injuries.
X-rays of the scaphoid may be helpful to watch the healing over time of an established fracture. Findings are taken into consideration with symptoms and clinical exam.
X-ray images can help to identify some changes in the structure of the scaphoid. More evaluation might be required if the X-rays don't show a clear image or if symptoms persist.
Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy is an Advanced Diagnostic and therapeutic unit at NABL and NABH to provide services in Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, and Pathology. Our imaging services are used to ensure we get our X-rays positioned correctly, diagnostic images of high quality, and to ensure our patients are at ease, and for us to communicate an accurate report to their physicians, which they can use to assess all bone problems and wrist injuries.
Ask your doctor if it would be useful to contact Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, who recommend an X-ray Scaphoid View. If applicable, please bring in medical records or old wrist X-rays, along with a prescription.
Test information: Usually, no fasting is required.
Reporting: Within 24 hours*