What is a metacarpal head fracture?
Metacarpal heads articulate with their corresponding phalanx. Thus, a fracture of the head is, by definition, an intraarticular fracture. The heads of the metacarpals are bulbous and “cam” shaped, thereby permitting adduction, abduction, flexion, extension and passive rotation of the fingers.
What type of fracture is a metacarpal fracture?
A metacarpal fracture is a type of hand fracture occurring in the bones which form the palm of the hand. These bones, located between the bones of the wrist and the bones of the fingers, are called the metacarpals. There are five metacarpal bones, each articulating with a digit of the hand.
How do you treat a fractured metacarpal head?
Metacarpal head fractures Nondisplaced fractures can be managed with splinting for 3 weeks, followed by gentle motion. Fractures in which the articular surface is displaced greater than 1-2 mm should be managed operatively. Splinting of metacarpal head fractures should incorporate the MCP joint.
Where is the metacarpal head located?
Metacarpal Head: The rounded distal end (the upper end on the side of the fingers). The area right below the head is referred to as the neck of a metacarpal.
Can you move your finger if your metacarpal is broken?
There will be swelling, often a considerable amount, as well as bruising directly over the injury. They may have difficulty moving the fingers due to the amount of pain from the fracture.
What is first metacarpal head?
Anatomical terms of bone The first metacarpal bone or the metacarpal bone of the thumb is the first bone proximal to the thumb. It is connected to the trapezium of the carpus at the first carpometacarpal joint and to the proximal thumb phalanx at the first metacarpophalangeal joint.
What is the phalanx called that articulates with a metacarpal?
Although the second and fourth proximal phalanges may be of similar length, it is generally found that the second is longer. The base of a proximal phalanx articulates proximally with the head of a metacarpal at the MCP joint.
Does a metacarpal fracture need a cast?
Treatment of a metacarpal fracture can usually be accomplished with the use of a cast. A cast is usually worn for three to six weeks, followed by gentle motion exercises. 2 Occasionally, if stiffness becomes a problem after cast treatment, a hand therapist will be recommended to work with you.