Patients › Hand
Mga Pagsira ng Daliri
Phalangeal and metacarpal fractures of the hand — non-operative care and indications for fixation.
Ano ang nararamdaman mo¶
Maaaring karanasan mo ang matulis na sakit at pamamaga sa iyong daliri o kamay. Karaniwang lumalala ang sakit kapag gumagalaw ang sugatang daliri o kapag naglalagay ng bigat sa iyong kamay. Maaaring makita mo ang pamumula o kitang-kita na depekto kung ang buto ay nalipat. Karaniwan at kadalasang matatag ang mga simpleng, saradong fracture, ibig sabihin ay nananatili sa lugar ang mga piraso ng buto. Gayunpaman, kung ang sugat ay may bukas na sugat o malubhang pinsala mula sa pagkapiga, maaaring mas matindi at kumplikado ang sakit.
Mahirap ang mga gawain sa araw-araw dahil hindi gumagana nang normal ang iyong kamay. Maaaring mahirapan ka sa mga simpleng kilos tulad ng pag-abot sa likod upang i-fasten ang bra o pagtupi ng damit. Mahina at masakit ang pagkapit sa mga bagay. Kung ang fracture ay nasa hinlalaki o hintuturo, mas malinaw ang mga hamong ito. Mahalaga ang mga daliring ito para sa pagpipitak at pagkapit, kaya ang mga sugat dito ay maaaring makaimpluwensya nang malaki sa iyong kakayahang gawin ang mga pang-araw-araw na gawain.
Maaaring maramdaman mong mapaitig ang iyong kamay, lalo na sa umaga o pagkatapos ng mga panahon ng pahinga. Maaaring gawin nitong mahirap ang ganap na pagwasto o pagliko ng daliri. Sa ilang kaso, lalo na sa mga fracture ng phalange, maaaring bumaba ang saklaw ng galaw sa paglipas ng panahon kung hindi ito maayos na pamahalaan. Maaaring mahirapan kang matulog sa iyong gilid dahil sa presyon sa sugatang kamay.
Kung ang iyong fracture ay bukas, mas mataas ang panganib ng mga komplikasyon. Humigit-kumulang isa sa apat na mga bukas na fracture ng daliri ang nangangailangan ng higit sa isang operasyon. Karaniwan ang pangangailangan para sa karagdagang operasyon lalo na kung malubha ang sugat, may mekanismo ng pagkapiga, o apektado ang daloy ng dugo sa daliri. Para sa karamihan sa ibang mga fracture ng metacarpal, minimal ang epekto nito sa iyong kabuuang kalusugan, at marami ang gumagaling nang maayos nang walang operasyon. Gayunpaman, ang mga plano ng paggamot ay nakadepende sa tiyak na pattern ng iyong fracture at sa kondisyon ng iyong malambot na tisyu.
Ano ang nangyayari talaga¶
Kapag nabasag ang isang buto ng daliri, nababasag ang matigas na panlabas na balat nito. Maaaring ito mangyari sa mga mahahabang buto sa palad (metacarpals) o sa mga mas maliliit na buto sa mga daliri (phalanges). Karamihan sa mga basag na ito ay simpleng, sarado, at matatag. Ibig sabihin, buo ang balat at hindi lumayo ang mga piraso. Sa mga kaso na ito, karaniwang gumagaling nang maayos ang iyong kamay nang walang operasyon.
Gayunpaman, may ilang fracture na mas kumplikado. Kung ang basag ay pumapasok sa ibabaw ng kasu-kasuan o kung ang mga dulo ng buto ay nalipat, maaaring hindi wastong maayos ang mga piraso. Kailangang tingnan ng iyong surgeon ang tiyak na pattern ng basag, kung gaano karami ang nalipat na buto, at ang kalagayan ng iyong balat at malambot na tisyu. Tumutulong ito sa pagdesisyon kung kailangan mo ng operasyon upang hawakan ang mga buto sa tamang posisyon habang gumagaling.
Kung kailangan ng operasyon, ang layunin ay ibalik ang buto sa kanyang normal na hugis. Pinapayagan nito ang maagang paggalaw ng iyong kamay. Pinipigilan ng maagang paggalaw ang stiffness at tumutulong sa pagbawi ng function ng iyong kamay. Halimbawa, may ilang minimally invasive na teknika na maaaring gamitin sa ilang fracture ng hinlalaki upang makabawi ng buong galaw sa loob ng 3 linggo. Ang ibang mga paraan ay gumagamit ng mga plate at turnilyo upang panatilihing matatag ang buto. Pinapayagan ng matibay na suportang ito ang mas maagang paggamit ng iyong kamay, na nagpapabuti ng kasiyahan at itsura.
Mag-ingat dahil may ilang sugat na may mas mataas na panganib. Mas malaki ang pagkakataon na kailangan ng unplanned na reoperation ang mga basag sa hinlalaki o index finger. Lalo itong totoo kung nasira ang mga blood vessel. Bukod dito, humigit-kumulang isa sa apat na open finger fractures (kung saan nabasag ang balat) ay malamang na kailangan ng higit sa isang surgical procedure. Karaniwang mas malala ang mga sugat na ito na may kasamang pagpiga o mahinang daloy ng dugo.
Kahit sa matagumpay na pagkukumpuni, maaaring magkaroon ng stiffness. Sa mga kaso ng unstable na proximal phalangeal fractures na pinaggamot gamit ang mga titanium plate, ang postoperative na finger stiffness ay nangyari sa 43% ng mga pasyente. Nangyayari ito dahil maaaring mag-tighten ang joint capsule at mga tendon kapag hindi sapat ang paggalaw ng kamay habang gumagaling. Ibabalanse ng iyong surgeon ang pangangailangan para sa stable na fixation at ang pangangailangan para sa maagang galaw upang bawasan ang panganib na ito.
Mga maitutulong namin dito¶
Karamihan sa mga fracture ng daliri ay gumagaling nang maayos nang walang operasyon. Para sa mga bata, ang non-surgical na paggamot ang karaniwang ginagawa at nagdudulot ng magagandang resulta. Madalas ay kayang pamahalaan ito sa bahay. Maaaring irekomenda ng iyong surgeon ang buddy taping, ibig sabihin ang pagtaping ng sugatang daliri sa kalusugang daliri sa tabi nito. Naglilingkod ito bilang natural na splint. Kayang gamitin ang paraang ito anuman ang antas ng displacement ng buto o kung kailangan ba ng realignment. Para sa mga metacarpal fractures, na mga basag sa mga buto ng palad, karamihan ay simpleng at stable. Karaniwang gumagaling ito nang mahusay nang walang operasyon at may minimong epekto sa iyong pang-araw-araw na buhay.
Kung mayroon kang proximal phalangeal fracture (basag sa unang buto ng daliri), susuriin ng iyong surgeon ang rotation o angulation. Kung hindi rotated ang buto at nasa loob ng ligtas na limitasyon ang angle, epektibo ang isang conservative na protocol. Maaaring gumamit ka ng thermoplastic traction platform, isang non-invasive na device na tumutulong na panatilihing nasa tamang posisyon ang buto. Ang hand therapy ay mahalagang bahagi ng iyong paggaling. Gabayin ka ng iyong therapist batay sa lokasyon at stability ng fracture. Ang layunin ay ibalik ang galaw at lakas. Para sa karamihan sa mga pasyente, ang landas na ito ay nagdudulot ng buong function sa loob ng 10 linggo nang walang komplikasyon.
Isinasaalang-alang ang operasyon kapag hindi sapat ang conservative na paggamot o kapag malala ang sugat. Maaaring kailanganin mo ang operasyon kung mayroon kang open fracture, kung saan basag ang balat. Humigit-kumulang isang kwatro ng mga kaso na ito ay nangangailangan ng higit sa isang surgical procedure, lalo na kung pinisil ang daliri o may mga isyu sa daloy ng dugo. Ginagamit din ang operasyon para sa mga unstable na fracture na hindi kayang panatilihin sa tamang posisyon gamit ang taping o splints. Maaaring gumamit ang iyong surgeon ng mga plate, turnilyo, o maliliit na pins upang ikabit ang mga fragment ng buto. Tumutulong ito upang matiyak na gumaling ang buto sa tamang posisyon. Sa ilang kaso, mas pinipili ang non-surgical na paraan kahit na isang opsyon ang operasyon, lalo na para sa mga closed spiral metacarpal fractures, kung saan kaunti lamang ang benepisyo ng operasyon. Tatalakayin ng iyong surgeon ang pinakamainam na landas para sa iyong partikular na sugat upang bawasan ang stiffness at ibalik ang normal na function ng kamay.
Ano ang inaasahan¶
Karamihan sa mga fracture ng daliri, lalo na sa mga bata, ay gumagaling nang maayos nang walang operasyon. Ang iyong surgeon ay malamang na gagamit ng splint o i-tape ang sugatang daliri sa kalusugang daliri sa tabi nito. Ang simpleng suportang ito ay tumutulong sa pagkakabit ng buto pabalik. Maaari kang mag-expect ng magandang resulta sa ganitong non-surgical na paraan. Kahit na medyo nalipat ang buto, madalas ay epektibo ang buddy taping para sa mga bata.
Para sa mga matatanda, maraming metacarpal fractures (mga buto sa palad) ay simple at matatag. Ang mga ito ay madalas ding gumagaling nang perpekto nang walang operasyon. Maaaring makaramdam ka ng pamamaga at stiffness habang nagre-recover. Karamihan sa mga tao ay bumabalik sa buong function sa loob ng sampung linggo. Dapat mong maramdaman na normal ang iyong kamay muli, na may kaunting epekto sa iyong pang-araw-araw na buhay o kalusugan.
Kung ang iyong fracture ay unstable o kinasasangkutan ng hinlalaki o index finger, maaaring irekomenda ng iyong surgeon ang operasyon. Tinitiyak nito na mananatili ang mga buto sa tamang posisyon. Karamihan sa mga pasyente ay nakakabawi ng mahusay na galaw at lakas ng hawak pagkatapos ng mga prosedurang ito. Dapat mong mag-expect na maramdaman mong nagiging mas malakas ang iyong kamay sa loob ng susunod na ilang buwan. Mahalaga ang mga follow-up visits upang suriin ang iyong pag-unlad.
Mag-ingat dahil may mga komplikasyon na maaaring mangyari. Humigit-kumulang isa sa bawat apat na open fractures (kung saan sira ang balat) ay maaaring kailanganin ng higit sa isang operasyon. Mas malaki ang tsansang ito kung malala ang sugat, pinisil, o nakaimpluwensya sa daloy ng dugo. Ang mga unplanned na reoperation ay nangyayari sa humigit-kumulang 8% ng mga metacarpal surgeries. Karaniwang kailanganin ang mga ito upang alisin ang hardware na nagdudulot ng discomfort, karaniwang sa loob ng dalawang buwan pagkatapos ng unang operasyon.
Ang stiffness ay isa pang karaniwang isyu. Ito ay apektado ang 43% ng mga unstable proximal phalanx fractures na ginagamutan ng mga plate at screws. Maaaring kailanganin mo ng karagdagang oras upang mabawi ang buong galaw. Ang mga sugat sa hinlalaki at index finger ay mas malaki ang tsansang kailanganin ng ikalawang operasyon kaysa sa ibang mga daliri.
Kung hindi ka makarating sa iyong follow-up sa isang buwan, maaaring hindi makapag-track nang maayos ng iyong surgeon ang iyong paggaling. Ang grupo ng mga pasyenteng ito ay madalas may ibang mga pang-araw-araw na sitwasyon kaysa sa mga dumadalo. Mangyaring panatilihin ang iyong mga appointment upang matiyak ng iyong surgeon na nasa tamang landas ka. Sa tamang pag-aalaga, karamihan sa mga tao ay gumagaling nang buo at bumabalik sa kanilang normal na mga gawain.
Kailan kumonsulta sa doktor¶
Kumonsulta sa iyong doktor kung mayroon kang patuloy na sakit na hindi gumagaling kahit pahinga, o kahina-hinaan at kawalan ng katatagan sa iyong daliri. Humingi ng pagsusuri ng espesyalista kung ang iyong daliri ay nakakabit o biglang nababagsak, o kung ang mga sintomas ay nakakaapekto sa iyong pagtulog o trabaho. Ang ilang sugat ay nangangailangan ng mabilis na pagkilala upang bawasan ang mga komplikasyon. Halimbawa, ang humigit-kumulang isang-kapat ng mga bukas na fracture ng daliri ay nangangailangan ng higit sa isang operasyon. Ang pag-uulit ng operasyon ay lalong malamang kung mayroong sugat na dulot ng pagpiga o mga problema sa daloy ng dugo. Ang mga sugat sa hinlalay at hintuturo ay mas malamang na magdulot ng hindi inaasahang pag-uulit ng operasyon. Kung mayroon kang fracture ng metacarpal, hindi kailangan ang mga follow-up X-ray para sa karamihan ng mga fracture sa base at leeg ng ika-limang daliri. Gayunpaman, dapat kang dumalo sa iyong nakatakdang follow-up sa loob ng isang buwan upang matiyak ang tamang paggaling.
Evidence & references
Overview¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery [1].
- Surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases of hand fractures [1].
- Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation [5].
- Conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures [5].
- Most pediatric phalangeal fractures can be treated nonsurgically [14].
- A small subset of pediatric phalangeal fractures benefits from surgical intervention [14].
- A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure [3].
- Open finger fractures in more severely injured fingers are especially likely to need more than one surgical procedure due to crush or vascular impairment [3].
- Taping finger fractures can be recommended irrespective of the degree of displacement or the need for reduction in children with displaced extra-articular phalangeal finger fractures [19].
- External fixation is an efficient alternative treatment method for combined open fractures of the thumb metacarpal and trapezium, with encouraging short-term clinical and radiographic results [6].
- Retrograde intramedullary screw (RIS) fixation in metacarpal fractures appears to provide adequate stability with satisfactory clinical outcomes and minimal complications [20].
- More high-quality studies are needed to fully examine retrograde intramedullary screw fixation as a modality for metacarpal fractures [20].
- Intramedullary fixation is an approach reviewed for metacarpal fractures, phalangeal fractures, and interphalangeal joint arthrodesis [23].
- Surgeons who treat metacarpal and phalangeal fractures inevitably treat complications associated with these fractures [4].
- A poorly functioning finger may represent a liability to the hand [16].
- Achievement of union or improved alignment alone may not be sufficient to justify retention of a digit if it is poorly functioning [16].
Anatomy & Pathophysiology¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery [1].
- Surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases of hand fractures [1].
- Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation [5].
- Conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures [5].
- Surgeons who treat metacarpal and phalangeal fractures inevitably treat complications associated with these fractures [4].
- A poorly functioning finger may represent a liability to the hand [16].
- Achievement of union or improved alignment alone may not be sufficient to justify retention of a digit [16].
- Surgical treatment is usually indicated for fractures and dislocations of the base of the thumb metacarpal to restore the anatomy and biomechanics of the trapeziometacarpal joint [22].
- Conservative treatment of base of thumb metacarpal fractures and dislocations often yields poor results [22].
- Intramedullary fixation is an approach reviewed for metacarpal fractures, phalangeal fractures, and interphalangeal joint arthrodesis [23].
- Mini-external fixation and Kirschner wire internal fixation have similar effects on postoperative traumatic arthritis and postoperative hand functions in Bennett fracture treatment [25].
- Each of eight patients treated with traction for hand fractures achieved a useful, painless range of motion while in traction and afterward [26].
- Full use of the hand was obtained eight to ten weeks from the time of injury in patients treated with traction [26].
- Both volar plating and external fixation can obtain a good range of motion at the proximal interphalangeal joint in unstable dorsal fracture-dislocations [33].
- The pins and rubbers traction system (PRTS) significantly increases flexion forces of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint [38].
- The pins and rubbers traction system (PRTS) prevents narrowing of the PIP joint [38].
- Most pediatric hand fractures can be treated by closed methods with immobilization for 3 to 4 weeks [41].
- Children have a great potential for malalignment correction of hand fractures by remodeling with growth [41].
- Osteochondral autograft from the hamate for treating partial defect of the proximal interphalangeal joint results in generally acceptable functional recovery and well-restored joint architecture [44].
- Mini-external fixators (MEFs) are effective to establish union and correct alignment of the hand skeleton with minimal tissue trauma [45].
- Mini-external fixators (MEFs) retain a good clinical outcome even in the most complex hand injuries [45].
Classification¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery [1].
- Surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases of hand fractures [1].
- Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation [5].
- Conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures [5].
- Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the presentation of the fracture, degree of displacement, and difficulty in maintaining fracture reduction [18].
- A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure [3].
- Reoperation for open finger fractures is especially likely in more severely injured fingers due to crush or with vascular impairment [3].
- Patients undergoing surgery for metacarpal or proximal/middle phalangeal fractures are not at greater risk for infection based on the diagnosis of open fracture alone [12].
- External fixation is an efficient alternative treatment method for combined open fractures of the thumb metacarpal and trapezium [6].
- Patients with combined ring and little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocations have similar functional outcomes to patients with only a little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocation [7].
- The frequency, pattern, and treatment of pediatric hand fractures vary among different age groups [10].
- Only two studies were found on the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures [9].
- Phalangeal fractures tend to deteriorate in total active motion (TAM) more than metacarpal fractures [13].
- Taping finger fractures can be recommended irrespective of the degree of displacement or the need for reduction in children [19].
- Patients with type 3 and 5 jersey finger fractures treated with buttress plating exhibited a functional distal interphalangeal joint range of motion [47].
Clinical Presentation¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery [1].
- Surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases of hand fractures [1].
- Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation [5].
- Conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures [5].
- Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the presentation of the fracture, degree of displacement, and difficulty in maintaining fracture reduction [18].
- A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure [3].
- Open finger fractures requiring more than one surgical procedure are especially associated with more severely injured fingers, crush injuries, or vascular impairment [3].
- Patients undergoing surgery for metacarpal or proximal/middle phalangeal fractures are not at greater risk for infection based on the diagnosis of open fracture alone [12].
- Only two studies were found on the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures [9].
- The frequency, pattern, and treatment of pediatric hand fractures vary among different age groups [10].
- Most pediatric phalangeal fractures can be treated nonsurgically, but a small subset benefits from surgical intervention [14].
- Isolated fifth metacarpal fractures can be managed definitively in the ED without further face to face review, with good patient satisfaction and acceptable functional results [29].
- Patients with combined ring and little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocations have similar functional outcomes to patients with only a little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocation [7].
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can allow athletes to return to play quickly after they sustain fractures or dislocations of the hand or wrist [11].
Investigations¶
- Only two studies were found on the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures [9].
Treatment¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery [1].
- Surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases of hand fractures [1].
- Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation [5].
- Conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures [5].
- A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure [3].
- Reoperation for open finger fractures is especially likely in more severely injured fingers due to crush or with vascular impairment [3].
- External fixation is an efficient alternative treatment method for combined open fractures of the thumb metacarpal and trapezium [6].
- Patients with combined ring and little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocations have similar functional outcomes to patients with only a little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocation [7].
- The frequency, pattern, and treatment of pediatric hand fractures vary among different age groups [10].
- Most pediatric phalangeal fractures can be treated nonsurgically [14].
- A small subset of pediatric phalangeal fractures benefits from surgical intervention [14].
- With non-operative treatment of fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, similar results were achieved with dorsal angulation either above or below 30 degrees [17].
- Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the presentation of the fracture [18].
- Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the degree of displacement [18].
- Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the difficulty in maintaining fracture reduction [18].
- Buddy taping after reduction of displaced extra-articular phalangeal finger fractures in children can be recommended irrespective of the degree of displacement or the need for reduction [19].
- Retrograde intramedullary screw (RIS) fixation in metacarpal fractures appears to provide adequate stability with satisfactory clinical outcomes and minimal complications [20].
- The vast majority of metacarpal fractures in athletes are managed nonoperatively with protective bracing and rapid return to play [30].
- Patients with a single displaced spiral and/or oblique finger metacarpal shaft fracture treated with unrestricted mobilization have outcomes comparable to those treated operatively [31].
- Operative treatment of single displaced spiral and/or oblique finger metacarpal shaft fractures may result in metacarpal shortening [31].
- Intramedullary splinting for displaced fractures of the little finger metacarpal neck offers an aesthetic advantage compared to conservative treatment [32].
- Intramedullary splinting for displaced fractures of the little finger metacarpal neck does not offer a functional advantage compared to conservative treatment [32].
- Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include displaced articular fragments [36].
- Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include rotational misalignment [36].
- Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include significant digit angulation or shortening [36].
- Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include irreducible dislocation [36].
- Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include significant injury to the joint supporting structures [36].
- Buddy taping is a non-inferior treatment modality for most paediatric finger fractures compared to splint immobilization [37].
- Non-locking plates are appropriate for most metacarpal and phalangeal fractures necessitating plate fixation [39].
- Social deprivation influences the pattern of hand fractures [46].
- Social deprivation influences the management of hand fractures [46].
Complications¶
- A quarter of open finger fractures require more than one surgical procedure [3].
- Reoperation is especially likely in more severely injured fingers due to crush injury or vascular impairment [3].
- Surgeons treating metacarpal and phalangeal fractures inevitably encounter associated complications [4].
- Patients undergoing surgery for metacarpal or proximal/middle phalangeal fractures are not at greater risk for infection based on the diagnosis of open fracture alone [12].
- Phalangeal fractures tend to deteriorate in total active motion (TAM) more than metacarpal fractures [13].
- A poorly functioning finger may represent a liability to the hand, and achieving union or improved alignment alone may not justify retention of the digit [16].
- Retrograde intramedullary screw fixation in metacarpal fractures is associated with minimal complications [20].
- Transcarpal migration of a broken Kirschner wire can cause ulnar neurapraxia [28].
Recovery¶
- The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery, though surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases [1].
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can allow athletes to return to play quickly after they sustain fractures or dislocations of the hand or wrist [11].
- A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure, especially in more severely injured fingers, due to crush or with vascular impairment [3].
- Patients with combined ring and little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocations have similar functional outcomes to patients with only a little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocation [7].
- Both cases of combined dislocation of the trapezoid and finger carpometacarpal joints demonstrate similar mechanisms resulting in nearly identical wrist injuries with good short-term functional outcomes when injuries are quickly recognized and appropriately addressed at initial surgery [15].
- A poorly functioning finger may represent a liability to the hand, and achievement of union or improved alignment alone may not be sufficient to justify retention of the digit [16].
- With non-operative treatment of fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, similar results were achieved with dorsal angulation either above or below 30 degrees [17].
- The patient regained satisfactory grip and thumb function with minimal donor site morbidity following functional reconstruction of a subtotal thumb metacarpal defect with a vascularized medial femoral condyle flap [21].
- Each of the eight patients in the traction study achieved a useful, painless range of motion while in traction and afterward, and full use of the hand was obtained eight to ten weeks from the time of injury [26].
- The only variables that lessen the return-to-play time for metacarpal fractures in the National Football League are involvement of lesser digit metacarpals and operative intervention for treatment of thumb metacarpal fractures [27].
- DEF provides excellent functional results for closed phalangeal fractures at the PIP joint, with a low incidence of postoperative complications similar to other commonly used surgical techniques [42].
- Recent reports confirm that small amounts of metacarpal shortening or dorsal angulation cause minimal functional impairment, and early motion of adjacent joints in closed simple metacarpal fractures expedites recovery of motion and strength without adversely affecting fracture alignment [43].
Key Evidence¶
- [L5] The majority of hand fractures can be treated without surgery, though surgery offers distinct advantages in properly selected cases. [1] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.02.017)
- [L3] A quarter of open finger fractures will likely need more than one surgical procedure, especially in more severely injured fingers, due to crush or with vascular impairment. [3] (10.1177/15589447211043191)
- [L5] Surgeons who treat metacarpal and phalangeal fractures inevitably treat complications associated with these fractures. [4] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.01.005)
- [L5] Most hand fractures can be managed successfully without operation, and conservative functional techniques are the optimum treatment for the majority of patients with single metacarpal fractures. [5] (10.1177/1753193420928820)
- [L4] Short-term clinical and radiographic results encouraged the authors about the efficiency of external fixation as an alternative treatment method for combined open fractures of the thumb metacarpal and trapezium. [6] (10.1007/s11552-007-9026-6)
- [L4] Patients with combined ring and little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocations have similar functional outcomes to patients with only a little finger carpometacarpal joint fracture-dislocation. [7] (10.1177/1753193414562706)
- [L1] Only two studies were found on the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures. [9] (10.1186/s12891-019-2988-z)
- [L4] The frequency, pattern, and treatment of pediatric hand fractures vary among different age groups. [10] (10.1177/1558944719900565)
- [L5] Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can allow athletes to return to play quickly after they sustain fractures or dislocations of the hand or wrist. [11] (10.1016/j.csm.2016.05.005)
- [L2] Patients undergoing surgery for metacarpal or proximal/middle phalangeal fractures are not at greater risk for infection based on the diagnosis of open fracture alone. [12] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.04.032)
- [L2] The phalangeal fractures tend to deteriorate %TAM than metacarpal fractures. [13] (10.1016/s0363-5023(11)60047-6)
- [Paper] Most pediatric phalangeal fractures can be treated nonsurgically, but a small subset benefits from surgical intervention. [14] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.08.015)
- [Case_report] Both cases demonstrate similar mechanisms resulting in nearly identical wrist injuries with good short-term functional outcomes when injuries are quickly recognized and appropriately addressed at initial surgery. [15] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.06.005)
- [L5] A poorly functioning finger may represent a liability to the hand, and achievement of union or improved alignment alone may not be sufficient to justify retention of the digit. [16] (10.2106/00004623-200506000-00028)
- [L3] With non-operative treatment of fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, similar results were achieved with dorsal angulation either above or below 30 degrees. [17] (10.1016/j.injury.2008.03.016)
- [L5] Treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx and metacarpals is based on the presentation of the fracture, degree of displacement, and difficulty in maintaining fracture reduction. [18] (10.5435/00124635-200810000-00004)
- [L1] With the current data, we can conclude that taping these finger fractures can be recommended irrespective of the degree of displacement or the need for reduction. [19] (10.1177/17531934241293338)
- [L2] RIS use in metacarpal fractures appears to provide adequate stability with satisfactory clinical outcomes and minimal complications, although more high-quality studies are needed to fully examine this modality. [20] (10.1177/1558944720988073)
- [Case_report] The patient regained satisfactory grip and thumb function with minimal donor site morbidity. [21] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.06.002)
- [L4] Surgical treatment is usually indicated to restore the anatomy and biomechanics of the trapeziometacarpal joint, as conservative treatment often yields poor results. [22] (10.1177/1753193414554357)
- [L5] The article reviews the background, biomechanics, applications, techniques, outcomes, and costs of this approach for metacarpal fractures, phalangeal fractures, and interphalangeal joint arthrodesis. [23] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.08.011)
- [L1] Both fixations have similar effects on postoperative traumatic arthritis and postoperative hand functions. [25] (10.1016/j.otsr.2012.07.015)
- [L4] The only variables that lessen the return-to-play time are involvement of lesser digit metacarpals and operative intervention for treatment of thumb metacarpal fractures. [27] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.01.011)
- [L4] The mechanism in this case was purely traumatic without predisposing causes such as inflammatory arthropathy or distal radius fracture. [28] (10.1177/1753193408102118)
- [L4] Isolated fifth metacarpal fractures can be managed definitively in the ED without further face to face review, with good patient satisfaction and acceptable functional results. [29] (10.1007/s11552-015-9749-8)
- [L5] The vast majority of metacarpal fractures in athletes are managed nonoperatively with protective bracing and rapid return to play. [30] (10.1016/j.hcl.2012.05.028)
- [L2] Patients with a single displaced spiral and/or oblique finger metacarpal shaft fracture treated with unrestricted mobilization have outcomes comparable to those treated operatively, despite metacarpal shortening. [31] (10.2106/jbjs.22.00573)
- [L2] Intramedullary splinting for displaced fractures of the little finger metacarpal neck offers an aesthetic, but not a functional advantage compared to conservative treatment. [32] (10.1177/1753193410377845)
- [L4] Both methods can obtain a good range of motion at the proximal interphalangeal joint. [33] (10.1177/17531934211059300)
- [L5] Surgical indications for fractures or fracture-dislocations include displaced articular fragments, rotational misalignment, significant digit angulation or shortening, irreducible dislocation, and significant injury to the joint supporting structures. [36] (10.1016/j.csm.2014.09.002)
- [L1] Buddy taping is a non-inferior treatment modality for most paediatric finger fractures compared to splint immobilization. [37] (10.1177/1753193418822692)
- [L4] The PRTS significantly increases flexion forces of the PIP joint and prevents narrowing of the joint. [38] (10.1007/s00402-007-0526-1)
- [L5] Non-locking plates are appropriate for most metacarpal and phalangeal fractures necessitating plate fixation. [39] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.09.023)
- [L5] Most pediatric hand fractures can be treated by closed methods with immobilization for 3 to 4 weeks, as children have a great potential for malalignment correction by remodeling with growth. [41] (10.1016/j.hcl.2005.10.001)
- [L2] DEF provides excellent functional results for closed phalangeal fractures at the PIP joint, with a low incidence of postoperative complications similar to other commonly used surgical techniques. [42] (10.1177/17531934251350453)
- [L5] Recent reports confirm that small amounts of metacarpal shortening or dorsal angulation cause minimal functional impairment, and early motion of adjacent joints in closed simple metacarpal fractures expedites recovery of motion and strength without adversely affecting fracture alignment. [43] (10.1097/01.blo.0000205888.04200.c5)
- [L4] The functional recovery is generally acceptable, with a well-restored joint architecture. [44] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.11.007)
- [L4] The findings demonstrate the efficacy of versatile MEFs to establish union and correct alignment of hand skeleton with minimal tissue trauma while retaining a good clinical outcome even in the most complex injuries. [45] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.017)
- [L3] Social deprivation influences both the pattern and management of hand fractures. [46] (10.1177/1753193410381823)
- [L4] Patients with type 3 and 5 injuries exhibited a functional distal interphalangeal joint range of motion. [47] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.07.038)
References¶
[1] Hand Fractures: A Review of Current Treatment Strategies. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.02.017 [3] Reoperation After Operative Treatment of Open Finger Fractures. HAND. 2022. DOI: 10.1177/15589447211043191 [4] Complications After the Fractures of Metacarpal and Phalanges. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.01.005 [5] Current methods, outcomes and challenges for the treatment of hand fractures. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2020. DOI: 10.1177/1753193420928820 [6] Management of Combined Open Fractures of Thumb Metacarpal and Trapezium (Surgical Tip). HAND. 2007. DOI: 10.1007/s11552-007-9026-6 [7] Fracture-dislocations of the carpometacarpal joints of the ring and little finger. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2014. DOI: 10.1177/1753193414562706 [9] Diagnostic accuracy of history taking, physical examination and imaging for phalangeal, metacarpal and carpal fractures: a systematic review update. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2020. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2988-z [10] Frequency, Pattern, and Treatment of Hand Fractures in Children and Adolescents: A 27-Year Review of 4356 Pediatric Hand Fractures. HAND. 2020. DOI: 10.1177/1558944719900565 [11] Return to Play After Hand and Wrist Fractures. Clinics in Sports Medicine. 2016. DOI: 10.1016/j.csm.2016.05.005 [12] Comparison of Open and Closed Hand Fractures and the Effect of Urgent Operative Intervention. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2019. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.04.032 [13] Predictors of the Postoperative Range of Finger Motion for Comminuted Hand and Finger Fractures Treated with a Titanium Plate. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/s0363-5023(11)60047-6 [14] Pediatric Finger Fractures: Preventing Big Problems After Small Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.08.015 [15] Combined Dislocation of the Trapezoid and Finger Carpometacarpal Joints—The Steering Wheel Injury: Case Report. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.06.005 [16] MALUNION AND NONUNION OF THE METACARPALS AND PHALANGES. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2005. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200506000-00028 [17] Effects of fusion angle on functional results following non-operative treatment for fracture of the neck of the fifth metacarpal. Injury. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2008.03.016 [18] Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx and Metacarpals in the Hand: Preferred Methods of Stabilization. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2008. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-200810000-00004 [19] Buddy taping after reduction of displaced extra-articular phalangeal finger fractures in children: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2024. DOI: 10.1177/17531934241293338 [20] Retrograde Intramedullary Screw Fixation for Metacarpal Fractures: A Systematic Review. HAND. 2021. DOI: 10.1177/1558944720988073 [21] Functional Reconstruction of Subtotal Thumb Metacarpal Defect With a Vascularized Medial Femoral Condyle Flap: Case Report. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.06.002 [22] Fractures and dislocation of the base of the thumb metacarpal. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2014. DOI: 10.1177/1753193414554357 [23] Intramedullary Fixation of Hand Fractures and Arthrodeses. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.08.011 [25] Three-dimensional finite element analysis of mini-external fixation and Kirschner wire internal fixation in Bennett fracture treatment. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2012.07.015 [26] 00004623-197961020-00018. 1979. [27] Metacarpal Fractures in the National Football League: Injury Characteristics, Management, and Return to Play. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.01.011 [28] Transcarpal migration of a broken Kirschner wire causing ulnar neurapraxia. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2009. DOI: 10.1177/1753193408102118 [29] Satisfaction and Functional Outcome with “Self-Care” for the Management of Fifth Metacarpal Fractures. HAND. 2015. DOI: 10.1007/s11552-015-9749-8 [30] Fractures of the Thumb and Finger Metacarpals in Athletes. Hand Clinics. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2012.05.028 [31] Nonoperative Versus Operative Treatment for Displaced Finger Metacarpal Shaft Fractures. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.22.00573 [32] Intramedullary Splinting or Conservative Treatment for Displaced Fractures of the Little Finger Metacarpal Neck? a Prospective Study. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2010. DOI: 10.1177/1753193410377845 [33] Volar plating versus external fixation for unstable dorsal fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2021. DOI: 10.1177/17531934211059300 [36] Finger Joint Injuries. Clinics in Sports Medicine. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.csm.2014.09.002 [37] Buddy taping versus splint immobilization for paediatric finger fractures: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2019. DOI: 10.1177/1753193418822692 [38] Biomechanical and functional analysis of the pins and rubbers tractions system for treatment of proximal interphalangeal joint fracture dislocations. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1007/s00402-007-0526-1 [39] Non-Locked and Locked Plating Technology for Hand Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2011.09.023 [41] Fractures of the Phalanges and Interphalangeal Joints in Children. Hand Clinics. 2006. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2005.10.001 [42] Clinical outcomes of ligamentotaxis in closed phalangeal fractures: a systematic review. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2025. DOI: 10.1177/17531934251350453 [43] Extraarticular Hand Fractures in Adults. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 2006. DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000205888.04200.c5 [44] Osteochondral Autograft From the Hamate for Treating Partial Defect of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.11.007 [45] Use of a Mini-External Fixator for the Treatment of Hand Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2009. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.12.017 [46] The epidemiology of fractures of the hand and the influence of social deprivation. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2010. DOI: 10.1177/1753193410381823 [47] Buttress Plating for Type 3-4-5 Jersey Finger Fractures: Without Bone Fragment Disruption and With a Challenging Rate of Hardware Removal–A Case Series. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.07.038