Non-thumb metacarpal fracture (head): Difference between revisions

(Text replacement - "==Treatment==" to "==Management==")
(Text replacement - "r/o" to "rule out")
Line 5: Line 5:
*Swelling, decreased ROM, and TTP of MCP joint
*Swelling, decreased ROM, and TTP of MCP joint
*Assess for rotational alignment (rotational malalignment is not tolerated)
*Assess for rotational alignment (rotational malalignment is not tolerated)
*Assess for skin integrity (r/o fight bite)
*Assess for skin integrity (rule out fight bite)


==Imaging==
==Imaging==

Revision as of 03:47, 31 July 2016

Background

  • Intra-articular fracture

Examination

  • Swelling, decreased ROM, and TTP of MCP joint
  • Assess for rotational alignment (rotational malalignment is not tolerated)
  • Assess for skin integrity (rule out fight bite)

Imaging

  • AP, lateral, oblique
    • Angulation assessed on lateral view
  • Consider "Brewerton view (X-Ray)" if collateral ligament avulsion fracture suspected

Differential Diagnosis

Hand and Finger Fracture Types

Management

  • Ulnar Gutter Splint or Short arm cast that extends to the PIP joint
    • In a comparison of the typical 4th and 5th digit flexed at the MCP joint and a short arm, there was no significant benefit to the intrinsic plus position of the fingers[1]

Disposition

  • Almost always refer b/c are intraarticular and typically comminuted
  • Non-displaced fracture can be splinted for 2-3 weeks followed by ROM exercises

See Also

References