Treatment of 5th Metecarpal Neck Fractures with Titanium Elastic Nail Using Local Anesthesia and Hematoma Block

Abstract

Objective:Surgical treatment of 5th metacarp neck fractures using titanium elastic nail (TEN) is performed under general anesthesia or axillary block. In this study, our aim is to present the clinical and radiological results of patients who underwent surgery under local anesthesia for the TEN entry site and hematoma block for fracture reduction. Methods: There were 14 patients who met the inclusion criteria in the study. Radiologically, metacarpal shortness and volar angulation angles at the time of admission, after reduction in the ER and after surgical intervention when the fusion had been achieved were evaluated. Clinically, rotational deformity, range of motion of the affected finger were evaluated according to Quick DASH scores. Results: The volar angulation before and after reduction in ER was found to be as a mean of 46.2° (33-60°) and 40.6° (30-48°) respectively. After surgical intervention a mean of 17.2° (10-22°) was achived at the final follow-up. The metecarpal shortness was determined to be mean 4.4 mm (1.8-7.3mm) on first presentation, 3 mm (2-5 mm) after reduction in ER, and 2 mm (1.2-3.3mm) at the final follow-up examination in surgically treated group compared to healthy side. Radiological bone union was observed in mean 35 days, there was no pain on palpation, and the TEN was removed. Finger flexion and extension were determined to be full at the end of the 3rd month and no rotational defomity was observed. The mean Quick DASH score of the patients was 1.5 (1.2-2). Conclusion:5. metacarpal fractures with TEN under hematoma blockage and local anesthesia and leaving the proximal end out of the skin is a safe method for the treatment of such fractures.