Physiological treatment for fractures of the metacarpals and phalanges.

Abstract

In the treatment of fractures of the metacarpal and phalangeal bones it is not necessary to apply much force for reduction or to apply great tension to keep the fragments in place. The splints here described are designed to hold the digits in a position of rest with the opposing muscle-tendon systems at minimal tension. The technique, carried out usually under regional block anesthesia, begins with the splinting of the patient's forearm, wrist, and hand, after which both hands of the physician are free to reduce the fracture and place the fractured digit on its splint. The finger and thumb splints, being made of aluminum, are readily cut and bent and facilitate x-ray studies because they are radiolucent.