Objective To review the advances in diagnosis and treatment of acute scaphoid fractures. Methods The characteristic, classification, diagnosis, and treatment of acute scaphoid fractures were reviewed and summarized. Results As one of the common fracture in hand, scaphoid fractures are generally classified as either undisplaced and stable or displaced and unstable. CT and MRI has best diagnostic specificity and sensitivity respectively. Most undisplaced and stable fractures can be treated successfully by plaster immobilization, whereas the displaced and unstable fractures have great prognosis after open reduction and internal fixation. Conclusion Acute scaphoid fractures should be diagnosed and treated at an early stage, and choose the appropriate treatment according to the location and stability of the fracture.