We proposed a novel and visual approach to the classification of scaphoid fractures1 by drawing an analogy between the morphology of the scaphoid bone (Fig. 1) and the geographic outline of the island of Menorca (Fig. 2) (Balearic Islands, Spain). Both structures share a remarkably similar elongated, curved shape, with narrowing at both extremities and a broader central body. This resemblance can serve as a mnemonic and visual tool in the surgical classification and communication of fracture patterns. We suggested a topographic naming system inspired by Menorca’s geography, assigning scaphoid fracture types based on corresponding anatomical zones:Fig. 1.: Diagram of scaphoid bone.Fig. 2.: Map of the island of Menorca. Ciutadella type: Fractures of the distal pole, analogous to the western tip of Menorca. Es Mercadal type: Waist fractures, corresponding to the central region of the island, the most common fracture location. Maó type: Proximal pole fractures, reflecting the island’s eastern extremity. Favaritx variant: Vertical oblique fractures with rotational or angular displacement, resembling the rugged northeastern cape. Binigaus type: Comminuted or tubercle-involved fractures, representing the irregular contours of the southern cliffs. This Menorca-based classification is not intended to replace established systems2,3 but to complement them in educational and descriptive contexts. For reference: The Herbert classification focuses on fracture stability and healing potential (eg, types A–D). The Russe classification describes orientation (horizontal oblique, transverse, and vertical oblique). The Mayo classification stratifies by location (distal third, waist, proximal third). The proposed system retains anatomical correlation similar to the Mayo classification, yet introduces geographic metaphors to aid in intuitive localization and fracture visualization. It may prove especially helpful in training environments or multidisciplinary surgical discussions. Validation studies assessing interobserver agreement and clinical relevance would be required. However, the conceptual link between bone morphology and topography could enhance our cognitive engagement with wrist fracture pathology. This topographic concept may be referred to as the MAPS classification (Menorca-based anatomical patterns of scaphoid fractures), integrating anatomical precision with geographic analogy to enhance the intuitive understanding of scaphoid fracture morphology. The use of Menorca as a reference in this classification is intentionally anecdotal and illustrative rather than geographic. The island’s outline acts as a narrative silhouette, mirroring the curved and elongated morphology of the scaphoid bone and offering a memorable visual story to support fracture localization. Much like other widely used anatomical metaphors, this approach does not depend on prior geographic knowledge but on shape recognition and spatial analogy. By framing scaphoid fracture patterns within a simple topographic narrative, the MAPS classification aims to enhance intuitive understanding, teaching, and interdisciplinary communication in a manner that is easily adaptable to diverse global clinical settings. The proposed classification has not been formally validated for clinical decision-making. DISCLOSURE The authors have no financial interest to declare in relation to the content of this article.
Thione et al. (Sun,) studied this question.