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掌骨骨折固定术

PDF Evidence Consent
Updated Oct 2026
Illustration: hand

本页面由机器翻译，尚未经临床医生审核。英文版本为权威版本。

为何建议进行此手术

Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton 的上肢外科医生 Kieran Hirpara 医生会根据您的具体损伤来选择治疗方案。掌骨骨折是指手部的长骨之一发生断裂。这项手术可在骨头愈合期间将断骨固定在正确的位置。当手部骨折的骨头已经移位、发生旋转或短缩、累及多块骨头，或在石膏中无法保持对齐时，我们通常会建议进行这项手术。有些骨折累及关节面或碎成几块，这类骨折往往需要手术来使其保持稳定。

大多数手部骨折首先采用非手术治疗，即使用夹板或石膏并配合手部治疗。如果这些措施未能使骨头保持在良好的位置，下一步才考虑手术。患者通常由全科医生转诊至我们的诊所；如果物理治疗师建议您来就诊，您仍需获得全科医生的转诊才能符合 Medicare 报销资格。就诊时，我们会采集病史、检查您的手，并在需要时安排影像学检查。然后我们会一起决定手术是否适合您的损伤和您的目标。目标是让您的手活动良好、感觉稳定，并能无痛地使用。

术前

您的外科医生会向您提供确切的指示，但以下几点适用于大多数人。请在手术前七小时停止进食和饮水。我们要求七小时，这样在手术排期提前时可以将您的手术提前。您可能需要在术前暂停某些常规药物；您的外科医生会告诉您是哪些药物以及暂停多长时间。请携带一份您所服用的全部药物的书面清单，并穿着宽松舒适的衣服。请安排他人在术后开车送您回家。需要拍摄手部X光片来规划手术，有时还需要做核磁共振（MRI）或超声检查。如果您有其他疾病，可能需要进行血液检查或由麻醉医生进行评估。

手术当天

您将到医院的手术入院单元报到，在那里办理入院手续并做好进入手术室的准备。您会见到麻醉医生，也就是在手术期间负责让您入睡并保持舒适的医生。这项手术在全身麻醉下进行。手术期间您将完全处于睡眠状态。部分患者可能还会接受区域神经阻滞以缓解术后疼痛；麻醉医生会根据您的个人情况在当天决定。

然后，您会被送入手术室进行手术。术后您会在复苏区醒来，在麻醉消退期间，护士会在那里照看您。待您情况稳定后，您将转入病房或回家。具体是哪一种，取决于手术类型以及您的恢复情况。

手术内容

您的外科医生可以用两种方式进行这项手术，选择哪一种取决于您的骨折情况。采用闭合方式时，不切开皮肤就将骨头对齐。然后经小的穿刺切口穿入钢针或一枚螺钉加以固定。采用切开方式时，您的外科医生会在骨折处上方做一个切口，以便直视骨折块并将其拼合复位。当骨折累及关节、碎成几块，或无法自行对齐时，就会采用这种方式。

骨头对齐后，需要借助某种方式在愈合期间保持稳定。您的外科医生会选择适合您骨折形状和位置的内固定物。可以用细钢针穿过骨头。可以将一枚小螺钉沿骨头内部置入，这种技术称为髓内固定，适用于某些骨干和掌骨颈骨折。可以用小螺钉横穿长斜形或螺旋形骨折，也就是骨折线环绕骨头走行的骨折。或者可以用一块带螺钉的小钢板将骨折块固定在一起。

留在皮肤外的钢针通常会在几周后、骨头稳定时在诊所取出。位于皮下的螺钉和钢板通常会保留在原位，除非引起问题。切口用缝线关闭，上面覆盖敷料。

术后

您会在复苏区醒来，在麻醉消退期间，护士会在那里照看您。您的手会用敷料包扎并佩戴夹板，您可能还会使用吊带以增加舒适感。我们会为您安排止痛药，让您保持舒适。您可以在感觉可以时四处走动，最初的24小时内应有人陪伴您。这项手术后，您可能当天回家，也可能在医院住一晚。这两种情况都很常见，您的医疗团队会与您讨论哪一种适合您。

如果您接受了神经阻滞，您的手可能会在大约24小时内感到麻木或沉重。这是预料之中的。如果神经阻滞消退后您仍无法活动手指，请致电诊所。如果您发烧、伤口周围发红并扩散，或伤口有液体或脓液渗出，或者服用止痛药后疼痛仍不断加重，请当天致电诊所。如果您的手指、手或拇指变得苍白、冰冷、发白、发青或发黑，请前往急诊科。

我们会保留敷料约10天；除非我们告诉您，否则请不要在此之前将其取下。我们会在复诊时为您更换或拆除敷料。

恢复

在最初的几天和几周里，您的手会疼痛和肿胀。这是正常的，会随着骨头愈合逐渐缓解。休息时将手抬高有助于消肿，为您安排的止痛药可以缓解不适。

您的手将由手部治疗师制作的夹板保护，您的手部治疗师是 Extend Rehabilitation 的 Ruby Doolan。她会指导您的治疗，并制作您所需的任何夹板。作为手部治疗的一部分，您需要定期进行活动锻炼。这些锻炼很早就开始，并随着骨头愈合逐步加强。目的是在骨折愈合期间保持手指活动。在治疗师设定的限制范围内，您可以用这只手完成轻度的日常事务。佩戴夹板期间您不能驾驶，因为夹板使您无法安全地握住方向盘。在拆除夹板并获得外科医生许可后，您就可以恢复驾驶；请参阅我们关于上肢手术后驾驶的页面。

随着活动能力恢复，日常事务会变得更容易。您会注意到握力和力量随着时间推移逐渐恢复。较重的工作、体育运动和健身要晚一些，等您的治疗师和外科医生都认为骨头已经准备好后再进行。睡觉时采用让您感觉舒适的姿势即可；没有必须保持的特殊姿势。

每个人的恢复情况各不相同。您的时间表可能会有所不同，您的外科医生和治疗师会在每次就诊时为您提供指导。

可能出现的并发症

大多数患者恢复良好，但偶尔也可能出现问题。您的外科医生和医疗团队会密切监测您的情况，以便尽早发现任何问题。

有时，骨头在愈合之前可能从已矫正的位置移位。您可能会注意到手指开始显得扭转或弯曲，或者握拳时手指的排列方式发生变化。请在下一次复诊时提出；如果变化似乎是突然发生的，请致电诊所。

钢针或螺钉有时可能从原来放置的位置移动。靠近关节的钢针可能引起疼痛，并使手更难使用。如果您感到新出现的尖锐疼痛，或者手指无法像以前那样活动，请致电诊所。

手指还可能出现旋转问题。您可能会注意到握拳时一根手指与另一根手指交叠，或者该手指与相邻手指不在一条线上。请在复诊时提出，以便进行检查。

任何手术都有感染的风险。如果您发烧、伤口周围发红并扩散，或伤口有液体或脓液渗出，或者服用止痛药后疼痛仍不断加重，请当天致电诊所。如果您联系不上诊所，请前往离您最近的急诊科。

留在皮肤外的钢针可能刺激周围的组织。钢针穿入处的皮肤可能发红或渗液。如果出现这种情况，请致电诊所，以便我们在其发展为更深层的问题之前进行检查。

极少数情况下，肌腱可能断裂，即牵动手指的索状结构之一发生撕裂。您会注意到活动能力突然丧失，例如前一天还活动正常的手指无法伸直或弯曲。如果出现这种情况，请致电诊所。

神经紧贴手部的骨头走行。神经损伤可能导致手的部分区域麻木或刺痛。神经阻滞后最初24小时内出现麻木是预料之中的。神经阻滞消退后，如果麻木或无力持续存在，请致电诊所。

有些人的手会出现持续的疼痛和敏感，其程度似乎与损伤不相称。在您预期应该缓解的时间过去很久之后，触碰或使用这只手时可能仍会感到疼痛。请在复诊时提出。

如果您想了解具体数据，本页面上的并发症表格列出了典型的发生率。

何时联系我们

大多数问题出现得较早，我们宁愿听到您的反映，也不愿错过。如果您发烧、伤口周围发红并扩散，或伤口有液体或脓液渗出，或者服用止痛药后疼痛仍不断加重，请当天致电诊所。如果您的小腿肿胀或疼痛、出现呼吸急促或胸痛，请前往急诊科。这些可能是血栓的征兆。如果您的手指、手或拇指变得苍白、冰冷、发白、发青或发黑，请前往急诊科。如果在神经阻滞消退后（约术后24小时）您仍无法活动手指，请致电诊所。最初24小时内出现麻木是预料之中的。如果您联系不上诊所，请前往离您最近的急诊科。

Reviewed by AI synthesis (v2) — pending human review · 15 September 2026.

Want the clinical detail? Read the clinician version.

Talk to your treating clinician for advice specific to you.

For an appointment with the CQ Hand + Upper Limb team, ask your GP about a referral or visit www.cqupperlimb.com.

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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