A case of avascular necrosis of capitate bone in an air compressor jack hammer worker

Abstract

Introduction: Avascular necrosis (AVN) is very rare in capitate bone. It mostly occurs due to direct trauma to wrist. However, it could also occur as the result of disturbed blood supply due to repetitive micro-trauma in rare cases. Case Report: In this report, a 30-year-old man who was an air compressor jack hammer worker with chronic wrist pain was presented. Imaging revealed a low-signal intensity lesion on T1-weighted which supported AVN of capitate. Blood supply damage was due to continuous stress to palmar hand as the consequence of working with air compressor jack hammer which led to AVN of capitate. Conclusion: AVN of capitate could occur as the result of repetitive micro-trauma. It has a high correlation with the job of patients. Radiography does not help in the first stages. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has high diagnostic sensitivity. In the primary stages in patients with occupation-induced AVN, it could be improved by changing the job and temporary immobilization.

Keywords: Avascular Necrosis, Capitate Bone, Scaphoid Bone, Idiopathic