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

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==Disposition==
==Disposition==
*Almost always refer b/c are intraarticular and typically comminuted
*Almost always refer b/c are intraarticular and typically comminuted
*Dorsal MCP wounds and lacerations should be treated as open and contaminated
*Dorsal MCP wounds and lacerations should be treated as open and contaminated<ref name="Hand and wrist emergencies">German C. Hand and wrist emergencies. In: Bond M, ed. Orthopedic Emergencies: Expert Management for the Emergency Physician. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; October 31, 2013.</ref>
*Non-displaced fracture can be splinted for 2-3 weeks followed by ROM exercises
*Non-displaced fracture can be splinted for 2-3 weeks followed by ROM exercises



Revision as of 12:17, 16 October 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 (maintain high index of suspicion for Closed fist infection)

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]
  • Remove restrictive clothing, jewelry, etc.

Disposition

  • Almost always refer b/c are intraarticular and typically comminuted
  • Dorsal MCP wounds and lacerations should be treated as open and contaminated[2]
  • Non-displaced fracture can be splinted for 2-3 weeks followed by ROM exercises

See Also

References

  1. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.04.010.
  2. German C. Hand and wrist emergencies. In: Bond M, ed. Orthopedic Emergencies: Expert Management for the Emergency Physician. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; October 31, 2013.
  • German C. Hand and wrist emergencies. In: Bond M, ed. Orthopedic Emergencies: Expert Management for the Emergency Physician. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; October 31, 2013.