OBJECTIVE: To introduce the operation method of treatment of nonunion of scaphoid bone by transfer of pedicled radial periosteal bone flap. METHODS: From Match 1986, 26 cases with old nonunion of scaphoid bone were treated by transfer of radial periosteal bone flap pedicled with recurrent branch of radial artery, the size of bone flap was 1.0 cm x 0.4 cm x 0.5 cm. RESULTS: All patients with old nonunion of scaphoid bone were healed by first intention, bone union was occurred after 2 to 3 months of operation, and wrist joint almost recovered normal function. CONCLUSION: It is an effective operation method to treat nonunion of scaphoid bone.