Variations in the development of carpal bones are uncommon, with the scaphoid bone typically forming from the fusion of the os centrale carpi and the radial chondrification center during embryogenesis. A bipartite scaphoid is a rare congenital disorder that occurs when these ossification centers fail to fuse, with a prevalence ranging from 0.1% to 0.6% in adult dissection. The differentiation between a bipartite scaphoid and pseudoarthrosis is challenging, complicating accurate diagnosis and evaluation. A 37-year-old male presented with right wrist pain following a minor fall. Physical examination revealed no visible deformity or swelling but restricted range of motion due to pain. Radiographic imaging identified a bipartite scaphoid with two distinct, similar-sized ossification centers, regular oval shape, smooth margins, and consistent cortical-to-medullary ratio, with no acute fractures or dislocations. The patient was treated conservatively with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and immobilization. Upon follow-up, the patient reported complete pain resolution and full range of motion in the wrist. This case emphasizes the unusual occurrence of a bipartite scaphoid bone in a patient experiencing wrist pain after a minor injury. It highlights the challenge of differentiating between a congenital bipartite scaphoid and post-traumatic pseudoarthrosis, underscoring the importance of considering this uncommon developmental variant when diagnosing and treating wrist pain.
Keywords: bipartite scaphoid; diagnosis; treatment; wrist.