2/28/2024 0 Comments First metacarpal fracture splint![]() Historically, metacarpal fractures that needed surgery were treated with “pins” also known as “K-wires.” This required the surgeon to reset the bone in the operating room and hold the bones together with these pins. Are there special ways to treat metacarpal fractures to get better results? In some cases, a well-performed operation can get you back to your normal activities faster and with better results than if you have a cast alone. Other fractures may benefit from surgery to put the broken bones back together and hold them in correct place. In some instances, the fingers and hand may undergo an “early range of motion” even while the fracture is healing to help prevent stiffness and loss of motion. If the fracture is stable, a cast may be used to hold a fracture that has been set. To temporarily treat an acute metacarpal fracture, a splint can offer support and protect the bones. This may be done in the ER by an ER physician or by one of our hand surgery specialists. If you suffer a “displaced” metacarpal fracture, the first step may be to “reduce” or “set” the fracture. The “you” factors – your age, hobbies, functional demands, activities, health, and what you do for work.How “bad” the fracture is – whether it is displaced, unstable, or open.Generally speaking, metacarpal fracture treatment will be guided by a few main factors: Additional tests, such as a CT scan, may be required to get high-level detail of the fractured metacarpal and fracture fragments to determine the type of treatment that is necessary. The diagnosis of a broken metacarpal will also include reviewing your medical history and a physical examination. Intra-articular: A more complex type of fracture that involves the major joints of the hand or wristįor a broken hand, X-ray provides the most definitive diagnosis.Open: When there is a break in the skin.Closed: When there is no break in the skin (most common). ![]() Comminuted: When the bones shatter into many pieces.Simple: When there are just two fragments of bone.Hand fractures can manifest in several different ways. The hand or fingers may appear deformed because the bones are out of place. ![]() This pain and swelling can make it hard to move or use the hand and wrist, but some people can still move or use the hand or wrist even if there is a broken bone. When a hand fracture occurs, there is usually a great deal of pain and swelling. Weak bones (like those with osteoporosis) will break more easily. What may indicate a metacarpal fracture?Ī metacarpal bone fracture is almost always the result of some type of trauma, most commonly a direct impact on the hand. Fractures may occur as part of a more complex injury where there has been damage to other tissues, such as tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Fractures may be even more complex if they involve the major joints of the hand or wrist (an “intra-articular” fracture). Most fractures are “closed” (no break in the skin), but they can also be “open” (a break in the skin). The fracture can be simple with just two fragments or may shatter into many pieces (“comminuted”). This is the most common fracture of the hand. The alignment of the broken metacarpal directly and hold the pieces in place with tiny metal plate and screws.A metacarpal fracture is a specific term for a type of hand fracture. If the fracture is severe, it may be necessary to make a small incision over the back of the hand to restore If the metacarpal can be set straight, metal wires are placed through the skin and into the bone to keep it straight while it is healing. A regional block numbing of the arm is performed, and Operative Treatment: Surgical repair of metacarpal fractures is required when the fracture pieces are unstable (won’t stay in place), or not healing properly with cast treatment. Occasionally the fracture needs to be numbed up and “set” straight. Nonoperative Treatment: Splinting and casting are the mainstays of nonoperative treatment of metacarpal fractures that are stable and not badlyĭisplaced (out of alignment). Undesirable outcomes such as nonunion (won’t heal) or malunion (heals crooked). Even without these warning signs, it is best to seek urgent treatment as the results of delayed treatment of metacarpal fractures can lead to Significant deformity of the hand or any open wounds around the hand (possible open or compound fracture). Suspected hand fractures warrant emergent treatment if you are experiencing hand numbness and tingling, severe or “tight” swelling, X-rays usually offer definitive diagnosis and help with treatment planning. Yes! Often fractures are obvious on physical examination, but severe sprains and contusions can also look and feel very much like a metacarpal fracture. Is There a Test for Metacarpal Fractures?
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