Patient presents with left hand discomfort after a FOOSH type injury.
No prior surgeries, carcinoma or corticosteroid/opioid regimen reported.
What do you see?
The shaft of the left 5th MC shows a transversely oriented fracture line with impaction. No comminution is detected. Soft tissue swelling is present adjacent to the shaft.
The 5th. MCP and proximal CMC joint are normal.
DISCUSSION:
The majority of MC fractures are simple, closed and stable with 5th. digit most commonly involved. (2)
Most 5th.MC shaft fractures have dorsal angulation – seen on radiographs -that can be clinically tolerated. Rotational deformity however, is poorly tolerated. Most 5th. MC shaft fractures have dorsal angulation – seen on radiographs -that can be clinically tolerated. Rotational deformity however, is poorly tolerated.
Plates provide the most rigid fixation. Surgical expertise, & knowledge of appropriate treatment options must be married to each patient presentation. (1)
REFERENCES:
- Hand (N Y). 2014 Mar; 9(1): 16–23.Published online 2013 Oct 16. doi: 10.1007/s11552-013-9562-1
- https://radiopaedia.org/cases/fifth-metacarpal-fracture