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Fixação de fratura do metacarpo

Updated Oct 2026
Illustration: hand

Esta página foi traduzida automaticamente e ainda não foi verificada por um médico. A versão em inglês é a versão oficial.

Por que esta cirurgia foi recomendada

O Dr Kieran Hirpara, cirurgião de membro superior no Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, adapta o tratamento à sua lesão específica. Uma fratura do metacarpo é uma quebra em um dos ossos longos da mão. Esta operação mantém o osso quebrado na posição correta enquanto ele consolida. Geralmente sugerimos a cirurgia quando um osso da mão quebrado saiu do lugar, girou ou encurtou, envolve vários ossos ou não fica alinhado no gesso. Algumas fraturas chegam à superfície da articulação ou se partem em vários pedaços, e essas muitas vezes precisam de cirurgia para mantê-las estáveis.

A maioria das fraturas da mão é tratada primeiro sem cirurgia, com tala ou gesso e terapia da mão. A cirurgia vem a seguir quando essas medidas não mantiveram o osso em uma boa posição. Em geral, os pacientes são encaminhados à nossa clínica pelo médico de família; caso um fisioterapeuta tenha sugerido que você nos procure, ainda assim será necessário um encaminhamento do seu médico de família para ter direito ao reembolso do Medicare. Na consulta, colhemos a sua história, examinamos a sua mão e solicitamos exames de imagem, se necessário. Juntos, decidimos então se uma operação é adequada para a sua lesão e os seus objetivos. O objetivo é uma mão que se move bem, que transmite firmeza e que você consegue usar sem dor.

Antes da operação

O seu cirurgião vai dar instruções exatas, mas algumas coisas valem para a maioria das pessoas. Pare de comer e beber sete horas antes da operação. Pedimos sete horas para que a sua cirurgia possa ser antecipada se a agenda do centro cirúrgico andar mais rápido. Você pode precisar suspender alguns dos seus medicamentos habituais antes da cirurgia; o seu cirurgião vai dizer quais e por quanto tempo. Leve uma lista escrita de tudo o que você toma e use roupas largas e confortáveis. Providencie alguém para levar você para casa depois. São necessárias radiografias da mão para planejar a operação e, às vezes, também uma ressonância magnética ou um ultrassom. Se você tiver outras condições médicas, pode precisar de exames de sangue ou de uma avaliação com o anestesista.

No dia da cirurgia

Você chega à unidade de admissão cirúrgica do hospital, onde é registrado e preparado para o centro cirúrgico. Você vai conhecer o anestesista, o médico que cuida do seu sono e do seu conforto durante a operação. Esta operação é feita sob anestesia geral. Você vai estar totalmente adormecido durante a operação. Alguns pacientes também podem receber um bloqueio de nervo regional para o alívio da dor após a operação; o anestesista decide no dia, com base nas suas circunstâncias individuais.

Em seguida, você é levado para a sala de operações, onde a cirurgia é realizada. Depois, você acorda na sala de recuperação, onde os enfermeiros acompanham você enquanto o efeito da anestesia passa. Quando o seu estado estiver estável, você vai para o quarto ou para casa. Qual das duas coisas acontece depende do procedimento e de como está a sua recuperação.

O que envolve a operação

Há duas maneiras de o seu cirurgião fazer esta operação, e a escolha depende da sua fratura. Na via fechada, o osso é alinhado sem abrir a pele. Em seguida, fios ou um parafuso são introduzidos por pequenas perfurações para fixá-lo. Na via aberta, o seu cirurgião faz um único corte sobre o osso quebrado, para que os fragmentos possam ser vistos e encaixados de volta. Ela é usada quando a fratura chega à articulação, se parte em vários pedaços ou não se alinha sozinha.

Depois que o osso está alinhado, ele precisa de algo que o mantenha firme enquanto consolida. O seu cirurgião escolhe o implante adequado ao formato e à posição da sua fratura. Fios finos podem ser passados através do osso. Um pequeno parafuso pode ser colocado por dentro do osso, uma técnica chamada fixação intramedular, adequada para algumas fraturas da diáfise (corpo do osso) e do colo. Pequenos parafusos podem ser colocados através de uma fratura longa oblíqua ou em espiral, em que a linha da fratura contorna o osso. Ou uma pequena placa com parafusos pode manter os fragmentos unidos.

Fios deixados para fora da pele geralmente são retirados na clínica depois de algumas semanas, quando o osso está estável. Parafusos e placas que ficam sob a pele geralmente são mantidos no lugar, a menos que causem algum problema. O corte é fechado com pontos, e um curativo é colocado por cima.

Após a operação

Você vai acordar na sala de recuperação, onde os enfermeiros acompanham você enquanto o efeito da anestesia passa. A sua mão vai estar com um curativo e uma tala, e você pode usar uma tipoia para mais conforto. Os analgésicos serão providenciados para que você fique confortável. Você pode se movimentar conforme se sentir capaz, e alguém deve ficar com você nas primeiras 24 horas. Você pode ir para casa no mesmo dia ou passar uma noite no hospital após esta operação. As duas situações são comuns, e a sua equipe vai conversar com você sobre qual é a mais adequada.

Se você recebeu um bloqueio de nervo, a sua mão pode ficar dormente ou pesada por cerca de 24 horas. Isso é esperado. Ligue para a clínica se não conseguir mexer os dedos depois que o efeito do bloqueio passar. Ligue para a clínica no mesmo dia se tiver febre, vermelhidão que se espalha ao redor da ferida, ou saída de líquido ou pus dela, ou se a dor continuar piorando apesar dos analgésicos. Vá ao pronto-socorro se os seus dedos, a mão ou o polegar ficarem pálidos, frios, brancos, azulados ou escuros.

Deixamos o curativo por cerca de 10 dias; por favor, não o retire antes disso, a menos que orientemos você a fazê-lo. Nós o trocamos ou retiramos quando vemos você.

Recuperação

A sua mão vai ficar dolorida e inchada nos primeiros dias e semanas. Isso é normal e melhora aos poucos à medida que o osso consolida. Manter a mão elevada quando estiver descansando ajuda a diminuir o inchaço, e os analgésicos providenciados para você aliviam o desconforto.

A sua mão vai ficar protegida por uma tala feita pela sua terapeuta da mão, Ruby Doolan, da Extend Rehabilitation. Ela orienta a sua terapia e faz qualquer tala de que você precise. Você vai fazer exercícios de movimento regulares como parte da terapia da mão. Eles começam cedo e vão aumentando à medida que o osso consolida. O objetivo é manter os dedos em movimento enquanto a fratura se estabiliza. Você pode usar a mão para tarefas leves do dia a dia, dentro dos limites definidos pela sua terapeuta. Você não pode dirigir enquanto estiver com a tala, porque ela impede que você segure o volante com segurança. Quando a tala for retirada e o seu cirurgião liberar, você pode voltar a dirigir; veja a nossa página sobre dirigir após cirurgia no membro superior.

À medida que o movimento volta, as tarefas do dia a dia ficam mais fáceis. Você vai notar a sua preensão e a sua força voltando com o tempo. O trabalho mais pesado, o esporte e a academia vêm depois, quando a sua terapeuta e o seu cirurgião concordarem que o osso está pronto. Durma na posição que achar confortável; não há nenhuma posição especial que você precise manter.

A recuperação varia de pessoa para pessoa. O seu prazo pode ser diferente, e o seu cirurgião e a sua terapeuta vão orientar você em cada consulta.

O que pode dar errado

A maioria dos pacientes se recupera bem, mas, ocasionalmente, podem surgir problemas. O seu cirurgião e a equipe acompanham você de perto para detectar qualquer problema cedo.

Às vezes, o osso pode sair da posição corrigida antes de consolidar. Você pode notar que o dedo começa a parecer torcido ou dobrado, ou uma mudança no alinhamento dos dedos quando você fecha a mão. Fale sobre isso na próxima consulta de acompanhamento, ou ligue para a clínica se a mudança parecer repentina.

Um fio ou parafuso às vezes pode sair do lugar onde foi colocado. Um fio que fica perto de uma articulação pode causar dor e dificultar o uso da mão. Se sentir uma dor aguda nova, ou se o dedo não se mexer como antes, ligue para a clínica.

O dedo também pode desenvolver um problema de rotação. Você pode notar um dedo se sobrepondo a outro quando fecha a mão, ou o dedo fora de alinhamento com os vizinhos. Fale sobre isso na consulta de acompanhamento para que possa ser avaliado.

A infecção é um risco em qualquer operação. Ligue para a clínica no mesmo dia se tiver febre, vermelhidão que se espalha ao redor da ferida, ou saída de líquido ou pus dela, ou se a dor continuar piorando apesar dos analgésicos. Se não conseguir falar com a clínica, vá ao pronto-socorro mais próximo.

Um fio deixado através da pele pode irritar o tecido ao redor. A pele no ponto de entrada do fio pode ficar vermelha ou com secreção. Ligue para a clínica se isso acontecer, para que possamos avaliar antes que se torne um problema mais profundo.

Raramente, um tendão pode se romper, ou seja, uma das cordas que movimentam o dedo se rompeu. Você notaria uma perda repentina de movimento, como não conseguir esticar ou dobrar um dedo que se mexia bem no dia anterior. Ligue para a clínica se isso acontecer.

Os nervos passam perto dos ossos da mão. Uma lesão de nervo pode causar dormência ou formigamento em parte da mão. A dormência nas primeiras 24 horas após um bloqueio de nervo é esperada. Depois que o efeito do bloqueio passar, ligue para a clínica se a dormência ou a fraqueza continuarem.

Algumas pessoas desenvolvem dor e sensibilidade persistentes na mão que parecem desproporcionais à lesão. A mão pode doer ao toque ou ao uso muito tempo depois do momento em que se esperaria melhora. Fale sobre isso na consulta de acompanhamento.

Na tabela de complicações desta página, você encontra as taxas típicas, caso queira informações mais detalhadas.

Quando nos contatar

A maioria dos problemas aparece cedo, e preferimos saber deles a não saber. Ligue para a clínica no mesmo dia se tiver febre, vermelhidão que se espalha ao redor da ferida, ou saída de líquido ou pus dela, ou se a dor continuar piorando apesar dos analgésicos. Vá ao pronto-socorro se a sua panturrilha estiver inchada ou dolorida, se você ficar com falta de ar ou se tiver dor no peito. Esses podem ser sinais de um coágulo sanguíneo. Vá ao pronto-socorro se os seus dedos, a mão ou o polegar ficarem pálidos, frios, brancos, azulados ou escuros. Ligue para a clínica se não conseguir mexer os dedos depois que o efeito do bloqueio de nervo passar, cerca de 24 horas após a cirurgia. A dormência nas primeiras 24 horas é esperada. Se não conseguir falar com a clínica, vá ao pronto-socorro mais próximo.


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Overview

  • The history of operative fixation for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures is limited to the twentieth century [6].
  • Low-profile metacarpal plates may be sufficient for fixation, provided patient compliance and supplemental stabilization with a cast or splint are considered [1].
  • Intramedullary screw (IMS) fixation is a practicable surgical option for metacarpal fractures [2].
  • IMS fixation is a time-saving and safe minimally invasive solution for metacarpal fractures, associated with a low rate of complications and promising functional and patient-rated results [3].
  • Miniature plates and screws are applicable for selected unstable metacarpal fractures of certain configurations [4].
  • External fixation using K-wires and methylmethacrylate is an effective and simple method for treating unstable metacarpal fractures [5].
  • Percutaneous intramedullary fixation is cost-effective and appropriate for transverse and oblique fractures of the shafts of the little and ring finger metacarpals [7].
  • Further research is necessary to determine whether bioresorbable implants provide adequate stabilization for unstable metacarpal fractures [8].
  • Self-correcting intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation of metacarpal shaft fractures has been associated with no malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries [9].
  • Complications occur commonly with plate fixation of metacarpal fractures, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results despite technical advances in plate design and instrumentation [10].
  • Retrograde percutaneous pinning is a stable, compressive fixation method that provides effective reduction of displaced fifth metacarpal neck fractures [11].
  • Interosseous nylon sutures have been used for the successful repair of oblique metacarpal shaft fractures in patients with metal allergies [12].
  • Closed reduction internal fixation (CRIF) and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of simple metacarpal fractures can be executed successfully using wide awake local anesthesia and no tourniquet (WALANT) with good functional results and without increased morbidity compared to monitored anesthesia care [13].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Bony Anatomy

  • The skeleton of the hand and wrist consists of 27 bones, of which 19 are long bones [18].
  • The skeleton is divided into five rays, each ray making up a polyarticulated chain comprising the metacarpals and phalanges [18].
  • The base of each metacarpal articulates with the distal row of the carpus [18].
  • The thumb metacarpal is the shortest, and the index metacarpal is by far the longest [18].
  • The proximal and middle phalanges of the long and ring fingers are longer than those of the index finger [18].
  • The trapezium is clearly angled out in front of the carpal plane so that the first metacarpal makes an angle of about 45 degrees with the second metacarpal in the sagittal plane [18].
  • The epiphyseal plates are located at the proximal ends of the phalanges and the first metacarpal, whereas they are located at the distal ends of the other metacarpals [18].
  • The index metacarpal is the most firmly fixed [24].
  • The ring metacarpal has about 10 degrees of mobility in flexion and extension [24].
  • The fifth metacarpal has a range of flexion–extension of approximately 20 degrees [24].
  • The second to fifth metacarpals are all bound together by various fibrous structures, the most distal of which is the deep transverse intermetacarpal ligament [24].
  • The deep transverse intermetacarpal ligament is better named the interglenoid ligament because it ties together the anterior “glenoid ligaments” of the metacarpophalangeal articulations, known as the “volar plates” [24].
  • The metacarpophalangeal joints are the keystones of the longitudinal arches of the hand [24].
  • The metacarpophalangeal joints are stabilized by collateral ligaments and by the thick volar articular capsule, the volar plate [24].
  • The sagittal bands of the extensor apparatus insert on the volar plate [24].
  • The first annular segment of the pulley of the flexor tendons inserts on the volar plate [24].

Soft Tissue Anatomy

  • Control of digital posture requires a complex balance of extrinsic and intrinsic muscle forces [17].
  • Extrinsic muscles have their origin outside of the hand and their insertion on the hand or carpus, whereas intrinsic muscles have both origin and insertion within the hand [17].
  • The extrinsic extensors run through six different fibroosseous retinacular compartments at the wrist level [17].
  • The first (most radial) compartment contains the abductor pollicis longus and the extensor pollicis brevis [17].
  • The abductor pollicis longus has multiple slips that insert at the base of the thumb metacarpal and radially abducts the thumb [17].
  • The extensor pollicis brevis inserts on the dorsum of the proximal aspect of the proximal phalanx of the thumb and actively extends the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb [17].
  • The second extensor compartment contains the extensor carpi radialis longus and the extensor carpi radialis brevis [17].
  • The extensor carpi radialis longus inserts on the index metacarpal, dorsiflexes and radially deviates the wrist [17].
  • The extensor carpi radialis brevis inserts into the base of the middle metacarpal and provides balanced wrist dorsiflexion [17].
  • The third compartment contains the extensor pollicis longus, which runs longitudinally down the forearm through the third compartment and turns abruptly radialward about Lister tubercle [17].
  • The extensor pollicis longus inserts on the distal phalanx and provides forceful extension of the thumb interphalangeal joint [17].
  • The fourth extensor compartment contains the extensor indicis proprius lying deep to the four tendons of the extensor digitorum communis [17].
  • The fifth compartment contains the extensor digiti quinti [17].
  • The principal bony insertion of the extrinsic digital extensors is on the dorsal proximal aspect of the middle phalanx [17].
  • Metacarpophalangeal joint extension is provided by extrinsic extensor force transmitted through the sagittal bands [17].
  • Distal interphalangeal joint extension is achieved through the conjoined lateral bands that are composed of tendinous slips from the extrinsic and intrinsic tendons [17].
  • The extensor indicis proprius inserts on the index finger ulnar to the extensor digitorum communis [17].
  • The extensor digitorum communis inserts on the index, middle, ring, and, in some cases, little fingers [17].
  • The extensor digiti quinti tendon inserts on the little finger ulnar to the extensor digitorum communis insertion [17].
  • The extensor carpi ulnaris tendon runs through the sixth compartment and inserts at the base of the little finger metacarpal [17].
  • The extensor carpi ulnaris provides wrist extension and ulnar deviation [17].
  • The extensor digitorum communis tendons of the middle, ring, and little fingers are tethered together by juncturae tendinum over the dorsum of the hand proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint [17].
  • The digital extensor tendons are stabilized over the mid-line of the metacarpophalangeal joint by their attachment to sagittal band fibers [17].
  • The sagittal band fibers insert onto the volar proximal phalanx and onto the lateral borders of the volar plate [17].
  • The sagittal band fibers form a sling that allows proximal extrinsic extensor tension to be transmitted to the proximal phalanx, permitting metacarpophalangeal joint extension without a tendinous insertion onto the proximal phalanx [17].
  • With rupture or attenuation of the sagittal band fibers, the extrinsic extensor tendon can sublux to the ulnar side of the metacarpal head causing ulnar deviation of the finger [17].
  • The extrinsic finger flexors are the flexor digitorum profundus and the flexor digitorum superficialis [17].
  • The flexor digitorum profundus inserts on the proximal volar aspect of the distal phalanx, flexing the distal interphalangeal joint as well as the proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints [17].
  • The flexor digitorum superficialis acts as a flexor of the proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints [17].
  • There are seven interosseous muscles, four dorsal and three volar [21].
  • The dorsal interossei are abductors [21].
  • The anatomic axis of the hand coincides with the axis of the third metacarpal [21].
  • The dorsal interossei lie to the radial side of the index and middle fingers and the ulnar side of the middle and ring fingers [21].
  • The little finger is abducted by the abductor digiti quinti [21].
  • The volar interossei are adductors and lie to the ulnar side of the index finger and the radial side of the ring and little fingers [21].
  • The middle finger has two dorsal interossei (abductors) and no volar interossei (adductors) because the central axis of the hand lies within it [21].
  • Each dorsal interosseous muscle, with the exception of the third, has two muscle heads [21].
  • The superficial head of each dorsal interosseous muscle arises most dorsally from the shaft of the contiguous metacarpals and is inserted deeply by a medial tendon onto the lateral tubercle of the base of the proximal phalanx [21].
  • The superficial head abducts and weakly flexes the proximal phalanx [21].
  • The deep head of each dorsal interosseous muscle forms a lateral tendon, or lateral band, at the level of the MP joint [21].
  • The deep head flexes and weakly abducts the proximal phalanx while extending the middle and distal phalanges [21].
  • At the level of the middle of the proximal phalanx, transverse fibers arch dorsally from each lateral band to join each other over the dorsum of the finger, flexing the proximal phalanx [21].
  • Oblique fibers (spiral fibers) from the lateral bands sweep over the distal third of the proximal phalanx to insert onto the lateral tubercles at the base of the middle phalanx [21].
  • The oblique fibers extend the middle phalanx (PIP joint) [21].
  • The lateral bands are joined by the lateral slips of the extensor tendon to form the conjoined lateral band [21].
  • The two conjoined lateral bands to each finger unite at the distal third of the middle phalanx to form the terminal tendon [21].
  • The terminal tendon inserts at the base of the distal phalanx to extend it [21].
  • The flexor digiti quinti brevis is structurally and functionally similar to the deep head of the dorsal interossei, forming the ulnar lateral band of the little finger [21].
  • The three volar interossei arise from adjacent surfaces of contiguous metacarpal shafts [21].
  • Each volar interosseous muscle has only one muscle head and none of them insert onto the proximal phalanx [21].
  • The volar interossei form the ulnar lateral band of the index finger and the radial lateral band of the ring and little fingers [21].
  • The abductor digiti quinti and flexor digiti quinti brevis are similar in both structure and function to the superficial and deep heads of the dorsal interossei, respectively, and arise from the fifth metacarpal [21].
  • The abductor digiti quinti inserts onto the ulnar lateral tubercle at the base of the proximal phalanx of the little finger [21].
  • The flexor digiti quinti forms the ulnar lateral band [21].
  • The opponens digiti quinti lies deepest and arises from the pisohamate ligament and the hook of the hamate [21].
  • The opponens digiti quinti inserts onto the ulnar side of the diaphysis of the fifth metacarpal, which it flexes and supinates [21].
  • The flexor digitorum profundus originates from the proximal ulna and the interosseous membrane [28].
  • In the forearm, the flexor digitorum profundus divides into two muscle groups: the most radial component supplying the index finger and the ulnar component supplying the middle, ring, and little fingers [28].
  • The flexor digitorum profundus and the flexor pollicis longus muscles form the deep compartment of the volar forearm [28].
  • As the flexor digitorum profundus and flexor pollicis longus tendons travel through the carpal tunnel, they occupy the floor of the carpal tunnel [28].
  • The tenosynovial sheath of the flexor pollicis longus is continuous with the radial bursa [28].
  • The tenosynovial sheath to the little finger is continuous with the ulnar digital bursa [28].
  • In some patients, the radial and ulnar bursae communicate, allowing a so-called horseshoe abscess to spread between the thumb and little finger if infection occurs in the flexor tendon sheath of either one of these digits [28].
  • The lumbricals originate from the radial side of the index, middle, ring, and little fingers in the palm [28].
  • The profundus tendon passes through the bifurcation of the flexor digitorum superficialis before inserting into the proximal palmar base of the distal phalanx [28].
  • The innervation of the flexor digitorum profundus of the index and middle fingers is through the anterior interosseous branch of the median nerve [28].
  • The profundus of the ring and little fingers is innervated by the ulnar nerve [28].
  • The flexor digitorum profundus provides digital flexion at both the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints [28].
  • The flexor digitorum superficialis has two heads: The radial head originates from the proximal shaft of the radius, and the humeral ulnar head originates from the medial humeral epicondyle and coronoid process of the ulna [28].
  • Each digit has a corresponding independent superficialis muscle [28].
  • As the superficialis tendons pass through the carpal tunnel, the tendons of the middle and ring fingers are more superficial and central than those of the index and little fingers [28].
  • In the proximal aspect of the finger, the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon bifurcates around the flexor digitorum profundus at the beginning of the A2 pulley [28].
  • The flexor digitorum superficialis tendon slips then reunite distally at the Camper chiasm, with approximately half of the fibers staying on the ipsilateral side and half crossing to the contralateral side of the finger [28].
  • The tendon then inserts via radial and ulnar slips into the proximal metaphysis of the middle phalanx [28].
  • The entire flexor digitorum superficialis muscle receives innervation from the median nerve [28].
  • The primary function of the superficialis is digital flexion at the proximal interphalangeal joint [28].
  • The flexor pollicis longus originates from two heads: The radial head takes origin from the proximal radius and interosseous membrane, and an accessory head originates from the coronoid process of the ulna and from the medial epicondyle of the humerus [28].
  • In the palm, the flexor pollicis longus tendon transverses between the abductor pollicis brevis and the flexor pollicis brevis [28].
  • The flexor pollicis longus inserts into the proximal base of the thumb distal phalanx and is innervated by the anterior interosseous branch of the median nerve [28].
  • The flexor pollicis longus flexes both the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints of the thumb [28].
  • As the flexor tendons pass distal to the metacarpal neck, they enter the fibroosseous tunnel, or digital flexor sheath [28].
  • The fibroosseous tunnel extends distally to the proximal aspect of the distal phalanx [28].
  • The tendinous sheath consists of annular pulleys, which provide mechanical stability, and cruciate pulleys, which provide flexibility [28].
  • The first, third, and fifth annular pulleys (A1, A3, and A5) are located over the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joints, respectively [28].
  • The second and fourth pulleys (A2 and A4) are situated over the middle portion of the proximal and middle phalanges [28].
  • The A2 and A4 pulleys are the most essential in maintaining the mechanical advantage of the flexor tendons [28].
  • The tenosynovium that lines the fibroosseous tunnel supplies both nutrition and lubrication to the poorly vascularized flexor tendons [28].
  • Proximal to the sheath, the tendons are well vascularized by the peritenon [28].
  • Within the sheath, tendon vascularity is supplied via the vincula system: the vinculum longus and brevis [28].
  • The superficial palmar fascia lies in a coronal plane beneath the palmar subcutaneous tissue [31].
  • The superficial palmar fascia covers a triangular area of the central palm, the proximal corner facing directly proximal [31].
  • The palmaris longus tendon, when present, terminates in continuity with the fibers of this proximal corner [31].
  • From this common point, four central bands of fascia extend distally toward each of the fingers [31].
  • There is no central band for the thumb [31].
  • Confluent proximally, the central bands separate and diverge just distal to the transverse retinacular ligament, each following the underlying ray [31].
  • At the distal palmar crease level, the central bands are bridged transversely by the superficial transverse palmar ligament [31].
  • Although the superficial transverse palmar ligament appears to lie deep beneath the central bands, fibers from the central bands pass above, below, and through it [31].
  • At this level, each central band branches in the following three directions: superficial fibers stay superficial and merge with vertical retinacular fibers at the dermis’s undersurface in the distal palm in areas between skin flexion creases [31].
  • Intermediate fibers split transversely into two sections, which extend toward the lateral border of the digit base [31].
  • These intermediate fibers are the spiral band that tracks around the neurovascular bundle [31].
  • Proximally, the spiral band is central and superficial to the bundle; distally, it is lateral and deep beneath it [31].
  • Spiral neurovascular bundles develop when spiral bands shorten [31].
  • Deep fibers continue dors

Classification

  • IMS fixation is a time-saving and safe minimally invasive solution for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, associated with a low rate of complications and promising functional and patient-rated results [3].
  • Miniature plates and screws are applicable for selected unstable metacarpal and phalangeal fractures of certain configurations [4].
  • External fixation using K-wires and methylmethacrylate is an effective and simple method for treating unstable metacarpal or phalangeal fractures [5].
  • Self-correcting intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation for metacarpal shaft fractures is associated with no reported malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries [9].
  • Complications occur commonly with plate fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results despite technical advances in plate design and instrumentation [10].

Clinical Presentation

  • Complications occur commonly with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results despite technical advances in plate design and instrumentation [10].

Investigations

  • Clinical evaluation of the injured or dysfunctional hand and wrist requires combining patient history with a careful physical examination to pinpoint or narrow the scope of possible pathologic processes [16].
  • Diagnostic tests such as imaging and serum laboratory studies are useful in determining pathology but can be expensive, time consuming, and often nonspecific [16].
  • A careful physical examination is essential to direct care and future testing if indicated [16].
  • The transverse axis of the palm, which corresponds to the metacarpophalangeal articulations, is oblique, more distal at the metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger and more proximal at the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint [18].
  • The transverse axis forms an acute angle of approximately 75 degrees with the longitudinal axis [18].

Treatment

Intramedullary Fixation

  • Intramedullary screw (IMS) fixation is a practicable surgical option for metacarpal fracture fixation [2].
  • IMS fixation is a time-saving and safe minimally invasive solution for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures [3].
  • IMS fixation has a low rate of complications and promising functional and patient-rated results [3].
  • Self-correcting intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation is associated with no malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries [9].

Plate Fixation

  • Low-profile plates may be sufficient for metacarpal fixation, although patient compliance and the use of supplemental stabilization with a cast or splint should be considered [1].
  • Complications occur commonly with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures treated with plate fixation, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results [10].

External Fixation

  • External fixation using K-wires and methylmethacrylate is an effective and simple method for the treatment of unstable fractures involving the metacarpal or phalangeal bones [5].

Alternative and Anesthetic Considerations

  • Closed reduction internal fixation (CRIF) and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of simple metacarpal fractures can be executed successfully using wide awake local anesthesia and no tourniquet (WALANT) with good functional results [13].
  • WALANT for metacarpal fracture fixation does not increase morbidity compared to monitored anesthesia care [13].

Complications

  • Complications occur commonly with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures despite technical advances in plate design and instrumentation, including lower-profile titanium plates [10].
  • The high incidence of complications with metacarpal and phalangeal fracture fixation leads to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results [10].
  • Intramedullary screw (IMS) fixation for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures is associated with a low rate of complications [3].
  • No malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries are associated with self-correcting intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation of metacarpal shaft fractures [9].
  • Internal fixation of simple metacarpal fractures using wide awake local anesthesia and no tourniquet (WALANT) does not result in increased morbidity compared to monitored anesthesia care [13].

Recovery

  • Intramedullary screw (IMS) fixation is a time-saving and safe minimally invasive solution for metacarpal fractures with a low rate of complications [3].
  • IMS fixation for metacarpal fractures yields promising functional and patient-rated results [3].
  • Complications occur commonly with metacarpal and phalangeal fracture plate fixation, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results [10].
  • Self-correcting intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation of metacarpal shaft fractures is associated with no reported malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries [9].
  • Internal fixation of simple metacarpal fractures using wide awake local anesthesia and no tourniquet (WALANT) achieves good functional results without increased morbidity compared to monitored anesthesia care [13].

Key Evidence

  • [L5] Thus, the smaller, low-profile plates may be sufficient for metacarpal fixation, although patient compliance and the use of supplemental stabilization with a cast or splint should be considered. [1] (10.1053/jhsu.1999.0928)
  • [L4] The use of IMS in metacarpal fracture fixation is a practicable surgical option. [2] (10.1142/s2424835524500231)
  • [L4] According to the findings of this systematic review, IMS fixation is a time-saving and safe minimally invasive solution for both metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, with a low rate of complications and promising functional and patient-rated results. [3] (10.1016/j.hansur.2021.04.009)
  • [L4] We conclude that this technique is applicable for selected unstable metacarpal and phalangeal fractures of certain configurations. [4] (10.1016/s0363-5023(86)80072-7)
  • [L4] External fixation using K-wires and methylmethacrylate fixation is an effective and simple method for the treatment of unstable fractures involving the metacarpal or phalangeal bones. [5] (10.1016/0363-5023(91)90030-f)
  • [L5] The entire history of operative fixation for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures is limited to the twentieth century. [6] (10.1016/s0363-5023(85)80268-9)
  • [L4] The technique is cost-effective and appropriate for transverse and oblique fractures of the shafts of the little and ring finger metacarpals. [7] (10.1016/s0266-7681(99)90039-6)
  • [Paper] Further research is necessary to determine whether this level of fixation is adequate to stabilize unstable metacarpal fractures. [8] (10.1053/jhsu.2001.24145)
  • [L4] They are aware of no malunions, nonunions, or extensor tendon injuries associated with this method of fixation. [9] (10.1097/bth.0b013e3182821233)
  • [L4] Despite technical advances in plate design and instrumentation, including lower-profile titanium plates, complications occur commonly with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, leading to a high incidence of unsatisfactory results. [10] (10.1016/s0363-5023(98)80157-3)
  • [L4] In our experience, retrograde percutaneous pinning is a stable, compressive fixation method that provides effective reduction of displaced fifth metacarpal neck fractures. [11] (10.1016/j.hansur.2017.04.004)
  • [L5] The successful repair of two oblique metacarpal shaft fractures with interosseous nylon sutures is reported. [12] (10.1016/0363-5023(89)90067-1)
  • [L4] CRIF and ORIF of simple metacarpal fractures can be executed successfully using WALANT with good functional results without increased morbidity compared to monitored anesthesia care. [13] (10.1016/j.hansur.2020.01.003)

References

[1] Low-profile versus conventional metacarpal plating systems: A comparison of construct stiffness and strength. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1999. DOI: 10.1053/jhsu.1999.0928

[2] Metacarpal Fracture Fixation with Intramedullary Screws. The Journal of Hand Surgery (Asian-Pacific Volume). 2024. DOI: 10.1142/s2424835524500231

[3] Intramedullary screw fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures – A systematic review of 837 patients. Hand Surgery and Rehabilitation. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2021.04.009

[4] Fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures with miniature plates and screws. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1986. DOI: 10.1016/s0363-5023(86)80072-7

[5] External fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1991. DOI: 10.1016/0363-5023(91)90030-f

[6] Carpenter's nails, phonograph needles, piano wires, and safety pins: The history of operative fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1985. DOI: 10.1016/s0363-5023(85)80268-9

[7] Percutaneous Intramedullary Fixation of Metacarpal Shaft Fractures. Journal of Hand Surgery. 1999. DOI: 10.1016/s0266-7681(99)90039-6

[8] Mechanical testing of bioresorbable implants for use in metacarpal fracture fixation. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2001. DOI: 10.1053/jhsu.2001.24145

[9] Self-correcting Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation of Metacarpal Shaft Fractures. Techniques in Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1097/bth.0b013e3182821233

[10] Complications and range of motion following plate fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1998. DOI: 10.1016/s0363-5023(98)80157-3

[11] Elastic retrograde intramedullary percutaneous pinning for fifth metacarpal neck fractures: A series of 32 patients. Hand Surgery and Rehabilitation. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2017.04.004

[12] Metacarpal fracture fixation with interosseous nylon suture in a patient with metal allergies. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1989. DOI: 10.1016/0363-5023(89)90067-1

[13] Internal fixation of metacarpal fractures using wide awake local anesthesia and no tourniquet. Hand Surgery and Rehabilitation. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2020.01.003

[16] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update 13 Ebook Without Multimedia. Anatomy, Evaluation, Clinical Examination, and Imaging > Evaluation and Clinical Examination: Current Concepts.

[17] A Lange Medical Book Current Diagnosis Treatment In Orthopedics Fifth Edition. 9Hand Surgery > Image DISORDERS OF THE MUSCULATURE OF THE HAND.

[18] Exam Of The Hand Wrist 2Ed. 1.1 SKELETON OF THE HAND > The osseous skeleton.

[21] Green S Operative Hand Surgery. Interosseous and Hypothenar Muscles.

[24] Exam Of The Hand Wrist 2Ed. The arches of the hand > The metacarpal arch.

[28] A Lange Medical Book Current Diagnosis Treatment In Orthopedics Fifth Edition. 9Hand Surgery > FLEXOR TENDON INJURY.

[31] Green S Operative Hand Surgery. PERTINENT ANATOMY.

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