What is a closed metacarpal fracture?
In severe injuries, multiple metacarpals can be fractured. The fifth metacarpal (the one that attaches to the small finger) is especially susceptible to fracture when punching objects with a closed fist, hence the nickname “Boxer’s Fracture”.
What is a closed boxer’s fracture?
Overview. A boxer’s fracture is when you break a bone at the base of your finger, near the knuckle or neck of the bone. That bone is known as a metacarpal. A boxer’s fracture may also be called fifth metacarpal fracture. It usually happens to the small (pinky) finger or the ring finger and is most common in men.
How serious is a boxer’s fracture?
An untreated boxer’s fracture can lead to a decrease in your ability to grip, limited range of motion of the finger, and an abnormal looking finger. With treatment, these problems are usually minor, if they happen at all.
Does a boxer’s fracture need surgery?
Boxer’s fracture are usually easily treated non-surgically with a splint and time, but if the fracture is displaced then surgery may be necessary to repair it.
How would you manage a closed fracture?
Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:
- Stop any bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage, a clean cloth or a clean piece of clothing.
- Immobilize the injured area.
- Apply ice packs to limit swelling and help relieve pain.
- Treat for shock.
What causes a fracture in the base of the metacarpal?
Fractures within each of the four regions of the metacarpal bone – base (Figure 2), shaft (Figure 3), neck, and head – are considered distinctly. Metacarpal base fractures usually occur as a result of significant axial load to a flexed hand as seen in clenched fist injuries. Figure 2: Fracture of the base of the 5th metacarpal.
Can a shaft fracture of the second metacarpal be tolerated?
As the digits become more central, deformity is not as well tolerated. Only small amounts of deformity, typically less than 10°, are acceptable for shaft fractures of the second and third metacarpals. Shaft fractures of the fourth and fifth metacarpals may accept angulations of 20° 61° and 30°, respectively.
Can a transverse fracture of the metacarpal cause malrotation?
An oblique fracture can result in bone shortening and malrotation. A transverse fracture may manifest with dorsal angulation as a result of the deforming forces of the interossei and long flexor muscles. Fractures of the neck of the metacarpal are most commonly seen, because this is the weakest area of the bone.
Is it possible to fix a metacarpal head fracture?
Fractures in this region are often comminuted, causing additional difficulty with their management. These injuries generally require open reduction and fixation although it is reported that metacarpal head fractures can be treated conservatively, with good long-term outcome if there is less than 25% joint involvement 2).