Non-thumb metacarpal fracture (shaft): Difference between revisions

(Text replacement - "==Treatment==" to "==Management==")
(Text replacement - "fx" to "fracture")
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==Imaging==
==Imaging==
*Oblique fracture are more prone to shorten and rotate
*Oblique fracture are more prone to shorten and rotate
*Transverse fracture generally stable (particularly isolated 3rd or 4th MC shaft fx)
*Transverse fracture generally stable (particularly isolated 3rd or 4th MC shaft fracture)


==Differential Diagnosis==
==Differential Diagnosis==

Revision as of 10:16, 8 July 2016

Examination

  • TTP along affected metacarpal
  • Flexion at MCP is difficult
  • Assess for extensor dysfunction; patient may exhibit "pseudo-clawing" during attempts at finger extension
  • Assess angulation
    • >10 deg in 2nd and 3rd and >20 deg in 4th and 5th metacarpal shaft fractures requires reduction
  • Assess rotational alignment

Imaging

  • Oblique fracture are more prone to shorten and rotate
  • Transverse fracture generally stable (particularly isolated 3rd or 4th MC shaft fracture)

Differential Diagnosis

Hand and Finger Fracture Types

Management

  • Ulnar Gutter Splint or Radial Gutter Splint]
  • Acute reduction indicated if there is pseudo-clawing or significant angulation
    • Closed reduction generally corrects angulation but typically does not restore length

Disposition

  • Refer:
    • Malrotation
    • Comminution
    • Shortening > 5mm (refer all shortening if not familiar with fracture management)
    • 2 or more metacarpal fractures
    • Unacceptable angulation
    • Long oblique fractures

See Also

References