Base Fractures Research Articles

Failure analysis on unexpected fracture of tube-to-tubesheet joints of a circulating oil steam generator

Tube-to-tubesheet joints are generally considered as one of the vulnerable part of heat exchangers, as they are sensitive to stress corrosion owing to residual stress generated during manufacture processes. As a result, it is crucial to carry out failure analysis on tube-to-tubesheet joints to ensure the safety of heat exchanger operations. The unexpected fracture of tube-to-tubesheet joints of a circulating oil steam generator in a petrochemical plant is studied. In order to find out the cause of the failure, the failed tube is investigated by visual inspection, base metal inspection and fracture morphologies observation. The results show that due to insufficient expansion of the tube, a gap is formed between the tube and tubesheet, which concentrates the alkali lye and chloride deposits, leading to the formation of caustic stress corrosion cracks in the outer wall of the failed tube before fracture, and the cracks rapidly propagate under tensile stress resulting in the failure. Finally, proposals are given about material selection, manufacture and water quality assurance of the circulating oil steam generator.

The role of ultrasonography in diagnosing acute closed volar plate injury of proximal interphalangeal joint

BackgroundAcute closed volar plate injury of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) is a common hand injury. In the past, there were few objective evaluation imaging methods for the degree of volar plate injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of high frequency ultrasonography in diagnosing volar plate injury, and to explore whether ultrasound can provide a beneficial guidance to clinical decision-making and appropriate treatment adopting through accurate US classification of volar plate injury.MethodsFrom May 2019 to may 2022, 41 patients diagnosed with volar plate injury were included in this study. All patients underwent ultrasonography and X-ray examinations. The sonographic features were analyzed. A new kind of classification of volar plate injury based on ultrasonography findings was described.ResultsEither an injury of volar plate or an avulsion fracture of middle phalangeal base was identified clearly on ultrasonography, according to which volar plate injury could be divided into three types: A, B and C. Type A, avulsion fracture of the middle phalangeal base without volar plate rupture; Type B, full thickness tear of the volar plate without avulsion fracture; Type C, partial thickness tear of the volar plate. The average thickness of the three types of injured volar plate measured by ultrasound was 0.33 ± 0.05 cm, and the average thickness of the volar plate at the same site of the corresponding finger on the contralateral side was 0.22 ± 0.03 cm. There was significant difference between the two group (t = 11.823, p = 1.2476 *10^(-14)).ConclusionsHigh frequency ultrasonography could be a reliable, accurate, convenient and non-radioactive diagnostic imaging technique in the evaluation of acute closed volar plate injury of PIP. And ultrasound could provide a beneficial guidance to clinical decision-making and appropriate treatment adopting through accurate US classification.

Accuracy of radiographic measurements of fracture-induced deformity in the distal radius.

Management of the distal radius fracture (DRF) is to some extent based on radiographic characterization of fracture displacement. It remains unclear, however, if the measurements used to quantify displacement are accurate. To quantify accuracy of two radiographic measurements: dorsal/volar tilt and fracture compression, measured indirectly as ulnar variance (UV), using radiostereometric analyses (RSA) as reference standard. Twenty-one fresh frozen non-fractured human cadaveric forearms (right = 11, left = 10) were thawed and eligible for inclusion. The forearms were mounted on a custom made platform that allowed for controlled forearm rotation, and they underwent two rounds of imaging (both rounds consisted of RSA and radiographs). In round one, the non-fractured forearms were radiographed. In round two, artificial DRF´s with compression and dorsal angulation were created and imaging procedures repeated. Change in tilt and UV between the non-fractured and later fractured forearms was defined as fracture-induced deformity. Deformity was measured radiographically and additionally calculated using RSA. Bland Altman analyses were used to estimate agreement between radiographically measured, and RSA calculated, fracture-induced deformity. Our results indicated that radiographs underestimate the amount of fracture-induced deformity. Mean measured differences (bias) in dorsal tilt deformity between radiographs and RSA were -2.5° for both observers. The corresponding values for UV were -1.4mm and -1.5mm. Quantifying fracture-induced deformity on radiographs underestimated the actual deformity when compared to RSA calculated deformity. These findings suggest that clinicians, at least in part, base fracture management and potentially corrective surgery on inaccurate measurements.

Single or double Kirschner wire fixation: which provides better outcomes for pediatric proximal phalanx base fractures?

The most common hand fracture in children is seen at the base of the proximal phalanx. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes of single versus double Kirschner wire pinning for pediatric proximal phalanx base fractures. The retrospective study enrolled patients who underwent closed K-wire pinning for proximal phalanx base fractures from January 2016 to February 2022. We divided patients into two groups based on the number of K-wire inserted (single versus double). Demographics, removal of implant, complication rate were analyzed. Patients were asked to answer the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) by telephone. Data including fracture type, diaphyseal axis-metacarpal head angle (DHA) and Total Active Flexion Scale (TAFS) were analyzed. This study included 37 pediatric patients with proximal phalanx base fractures, treated with either single (n = 10) or double K-wire (n = 27) fixation. The mean operation time was significantly shorter for the single K-wire group. No significant differences were observed in complication rates, TAFS, implant removal times, MHQ, or pre- and post-operative DHA between the two groups. The single K-wire technique demonstrates similar effectiveness to the double K-wire technique in treating pediatric proximal phalanx base fractures, with the added benefit of shorter operation time. Therefore, the choice between using one or two K-wires should be determined based on the surgeon's proficiency and preference.

Fixation of Fracture Fifth Metatarsal Bone by Cannulated Screws

Background: Today, There is great difference regarding fixation of fracture of base of fifth metatarsal bone
 Patients and Methods : Between March 2021 and June 2021a prospective study was bone on twenty patients (5 females and 15 males) with a mean age 40 years old (range 30-05 years), in Mataria Teaching Hospital. The mode of trauma was twisting injury in all patients. Patients were followed up for 4 months post operatively. All patients had under gone cannulated screws.
 Results : 19 patients had excellent outcomes regarding AOFAS (Nopain, Complete union) only one patient had residual pain with non union (It was a comminuted fracture case).
 Conclusion : Fixation of fracture base of fifth metatarsal bone by cannulated screws is a very effective method of treatment with short hospital stay and rapid recovery period.

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for scapular fractures.

Presentation of aminimally invasive surgical approach for the treatment of scapular fractures and the clinical outcome using this technique. Displaced extra-articular fractures of the scapula body and glenoid neck (AO 14B and 14F) and simple intra-articular fractures of the glenoid. Complex intra-articular fractures and isolated fractures of the coracoid base. Make astraight or slightly curved incision along the lateral margin of the scapula leaving the deltoid fascia intact. Identify the interval between the teres minor muscle and infraspinatus to visualize the lateral column, whilst retracting the deltoid to visualize the glenoid neck. Reduce and align the fracture using direct and indirect reduction tools. Asecond window on the medial border of the scapula can be made to aid reduction and/or to augment stability. Small (2.0-2.7 mm) plates in a90° configuration on the lateral border and, if required, on the medial border are used. Intra-operative imaging confirms adequate reduction and extra-articular screw placement. Direct postoperative free functional nonweight-bearing rehabilitation limited to 90° abduction for the first 6weeks. Sling for comfort. Free range of motion and permissive weight-bearing after 6weeks. We collected data from 35patients treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) between 2011 and 2021. Average age was 53 ± 15.1years (range 21-71years); 17had atypeB and 18atypeF fracture according the AO classification. All patients suffered concomitant injuries of which thoracic (n = 33) and upper extremity (n = 25) injuries were most common. Double plating of the lateral border (n = 30) was most commonly performed as described in the surgical technique section. One patient underwent an additional osteosynthesis 3months after initial surgery due to pain and lack of radiological signs of healing of afracture extension into the spine of the scapula. In the same patient, the plate on the spine of scapula was later removed due to plate irritation. In 2patients postoperative images showed ascrew protruding into the glenohumeral joint requiring revision surgery. After standardisation of intra-operative imaging following these two cases, intra-articular screw placement did not occur anymore. No patient suffered from iatrogenic nerve injury and none developed awound infection.

Assessment of relationships between condylar fracture pattern and mandibular third molar position by panoramic radiography and computed tomography: A retrospective comparative study.

Although previous studies have revealed the influence of the mandibular third molar (M3) on mandibular condylar fracture risk and that the presence of M3 could result in different incidences of condylar and angle fractures, there have been no analyses of the influence of M3 on fracture patterns. Moreover, evaluations of M3 position using panoramic radiography have shown insufficient accuracy. This study investigated the relationship between condylar fracture patterns and M3 position using panoramic radiography and computed tomography. This retrospective study included 280 patients with unilateral mandibular condylar fractures and ipsilateral M3 admitted to West China Hospital of Stomatology between January 2016 and June 2022. Patient medical records, panoramic radiographs, and computed tomography images were collected. The vertical and horizontal positions of M3 were classified using the Pell and Gregory system. M3 angulation was defined as the angle between the long axis of M3 and the mandibular occlusal plane. Condylar fracture patterns were classified as intracapsular (Types A-C) or extracapsular (neck and base). Data were analyzed using McNemar-Bowker test, Pearson chi-squared test, and Fisher's exact test. Classification of M3 position differed significantly between panoramic radiography and computed tomography images (p < .05). There was a significant association between the mandibular condylar fracture pattern and M3 horizontal position on computed tomography (p < .05). Class I M3 position on computed tomography was associated with a higher incidence of intracapsular than extracapsular fractures, along with a higher incidence of Type B than base fractures; the opposite relationships were observed for Class II. No such association was identified on panoramic radiography. Mandibular condylar fracture patterns were presumably influenced by M3 horizontal position on computed tomography. The imaging modality affected the classification of M3 position and subsequent analyses. Computed tomography is recommended for future studies to improve accuracy and reliability.

Wrist &amp; Hand

The August 2023 Wrist &amp; Hand Roundup360 looks at: Complications and patient-reported outcomes after trapeziectomy with a Weilby sling: a cohort study; Swelling, stiffness, and dysfunction following proximal interphalangeal joint sprains; Utility of preoperative MRI for assessing proximal fragment vascularity in scaphoid nonunion; Complications and outcomes of operative treatment for acute perilunate injuries: a systematic review; The position of the median nerve in relation to the palmaris longus tendon at the wrist: a study of 784 MR images; Basal fractures of the ulnar styloid? A randomized controlled trial; Proximal row carpectomy versus four-corner arthrodesis in SLAC and SNAC wrist; Managing cold intolerance after hand injury: a systematic review.

Impact of perioperative factors on short-term outcomes after emergency surgery for acute traumatic extradural hematoma – A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundPreoperative clinical and imaging findings predict neurological outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Similarly, intraoperative factors such as blood loss and hypotension can also affect outcomes. However, there is not much data regarding the influence of perioperative variables on clinical outcomes in patients with extradural hematoma (EDH). This study aimed to understand the effect of perioperative factors on short-term neurological outcomes in patients operated for acute traumatic EDH. MethodsAfter obtaining institutional ethical approval, we collected data retrospectively from records of patients who underwent emergency surgery for acute traumatic EDH over a two-year period. Data regarding age, gender, preoperative Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, clinical and imaging findings, surgical and anesthetic details, blood loss and transfusion, duration of hospital stay, and GCS score at discharge were collected. Patients with discharge GCS score of 14–15 were considered to have favorable outcome and <14 as unfavorable outcome. Regression analysis was performed to examine the association between predictors and outcomes. Odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. ResultsData of 501 patients were analyzed. Outcome was favorable in 343 (68.5 %) and unfavorable in 158 (31.5 %) patients. On multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR, 95 % CI, p value), age (1.03, 1.01–1.05, 0.01), preoperative GCS score (0.68, 0.61–0.76, <0.001), signs of basal skull fracture (1.9, 1.02–3.61, 0.043) and intraoperative blood loss (2.23, 1.2–4.16, 0.01) were independently associated with unfavorable outcome. Pneumonia, neurological deficits, inotrope use and duration of hospital stay was more in this group. ConclusionsOlder age, poor pre-operative GCS score, signs of basal skull fracture, and intraoperative blood loss were associated with lower discharge GCS score, increased neurological deficits and longer hospital stay in patients operated for acute traumatic EDH.

Evaluation of full-face, open-face, and airbag-equipped helmets for facial impact protection

ObjectiveTwo-wheeler riders frequently sustain injuries to the head and face in real-world crashes, including traumatic brain injury, basilar skull fracture, and facial fracture. Different types of helmets exist today, which are recognized as preventing head injuries in general; however, their efficacy and limitations in facial impact protection are underexplored. Biofidelic surrogate test devices and assessment criteria are lacking in current helmet standards. This study addresses these gaps by applying a new, more biofidelic test method to evaluate conventional full-face helmets and a novel airbag-equipped helmet design. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to better helmet design and testing standards. MethodsFacial impact tests at two locations, mid-face and lower face, were conducted with a complete THOR dummy. Forces applied to the face and at the junction of the head and neck were measured. Brain strain was predicted by a finite element head model taking both linear and rotational head kinematics as input. Four helmet types were evaluated: full-face motorcycle and bike helmets, a novel design called a face airbag (an inflatable structure integrated into an open-face motorcycle helmet), and an open-face motorcycle helmet. The unpaired, two-sided student’s t-test was performed between the open-face helmet and the others, which featured face-protective designs. ResultsA substantial reduction in brain strain and facial forces was found with the full-face motorcycle helmet and face airbag. Upper neck tensile forces increased slightly with both full-face motorcycle (14.4%, p >.05) and bike helmets (21.7%, p =.039). The full-face bike helmet reduced the brain strain and facial forces for lower-face impacts, but not for mid-face impacts. The motorcycle helmet reduced mid-face impact forces while slightly increasing forces in the lower face. Significance of resultsThe chin guards of full-face helmets and the face airbag protect by reducing facial load and brain strain for lower face impact; however, the full-face helmets’ influence on neck tension and increased risk for basilar skull fracture need further investigation. The motorcycle helmet’s visor re-directed mid-face impact forces to the forehead and lower face via the helmet’s upper rim and chin guard: a thus-far undescribed protective mechanism. Given the significance of the visor for facial protection, an impact test procedure should be included in helmet standards, and the use of helmet visors promoted. A simplified, yet biofidelic, facial impact test method should be included in future helmet standards to ensure a minimum level of protection performance.

Which of 51 Plate Designs Can Most Stably Fixate the Fragments in a Fracture of the Mandibular Condyle Base?

In the surgical treatment of the most common fracture of the mandible, which is a fracture of the condylar base, a great choice of different plate shapes is observed. The aim of this study was to determine which shape gives the greatest fixation stiffness. To ensure homogeneity in comparison, tests were performed on polyurethane models divided at the level of the condylar base fracture and each were fixed with 51 plates. The plates were cut from a 1 mm thick grade 23 titanium sheet. The models were then loaded and the force required for 1 mm of fracture displacement was recorded. It was noted that in addition to osteosynthesis from two simple plates, there were also two dedicated single plates with similar rigidity. Among the large number of described designs of plates, there is considerable variation in terms of the stability of the fixation performed with them. The proposed Mechanical Excellence Factor allows a pre-evaluation of the expected rigidity of fixation with a given plate shape without the need for a loading experiment. The authors expect this to be helpful for surgeons in the application of relevant plates, as well for inventors of new plates for the osteosynthesis of basal fractures in mandibular condyle.

Pediatric Cranial Vault and Skull Base Fractures.

Cranial vault and skull base fractures in children are distinctly different from those seen in adults. Pediatric skull fractures have the benefit of greater capacity to remodel; however, the developing pediatric brain and craniofacial skeleton present unique challenges to diagnosis, natural history, and management. This article discusses the role of surgical treatment of these fractures, its indications, and techniques.

A case of safe airway management by fiber-optic nasotracheal intubation in general anesthesia in a pediatric patient with Hajdu-Cheney syndrome: a case report

BackgroundHajdu-Cheney syndrome (HCS) is an extremely rare disorder characterized by progressive acro-osteolysis. A unique facial structure and deformity of the cervical spine are associated with a difficult airway. Although several reports describe general anesthesia with orotracheal intubation for patients with HCS, there have been no reports of nasotracheal intubation with a risk of skull base fracture. We describe nasotracheal intubation for oral surgery in a patient with HCS.Case presentationA 13-year-old girl with HCS was scheduled for dental surgery. Preoperative computed tomography revealed no abnormalities including fractures in the skull base or cervical spine. After confirming a lack of vocal cord paralysis by bronchofiberscopic inspection from the nose, general anesthesia was induced with sevoflurane, remifentanil, and rocuronium. Fiber-optic nasotracheal intubation was successfully performed without complications such as depletion of oxygen saturation and massive epistaxis, and the surgery was completed uneventfully. She was discharged the day after surgery with no anesthesia-related complications.ConclusionsWe were able to safely manage the airway of a patient with HCS by nasotracheal intubation under general anesthesia.

Skull Base Fracture: Management in the Acute Phase

Skull Base Fracture: Management in the Acute Phase

Fracture of the Petrous Carotid Canal

A 23-year-old male motorcyclist experienced blunt head trauma with loss of consciousness, headache and vomiting, epistaxis and right otorrhagia after a collision with a motor vehicle. Fractures involving the right parietal and temporal bones, as well as acute subdural and subarachnoid hemorrhage were identified on a cranial and facial CT scan. On independent evaluation of the imaging study, a subtle but distinct fracture line in the skull base involving the petrous carotid canal was identified. (Figure 1) The patient subsequently underwent CT angiography to evaluate for any injury to the internal carotid artery. In this examination, good opacification of the internal carotid arteries and their branches was noted, with no evident aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation or arteriovenous fistula formation.&#x0D; In patients with temporal bone fractures, the most commonly encountered complications are: tympano-ossicular injury causing conductive hearing loss, cochlear or vestibular injury causing sensorineural hearing loss or vertigo, facial nerve trauma causing facial paralysis, and fractures of the tegmen or posterior cranial fossa plate causing cerebrospinal fluid leaks.1 On the other hand, injury to the intratemporal portion of the internal carotid artery has been described as a rare complication and as such may be overlooked.1 However, its potentially devastating and life-threatening sequelae necessitates a purposeful and intentional evaluation for its presence. These sequelae include brain ischemia from arterial dissection or complete vascular occlusion, exsanguinating epistaxis or otorrhagia from carotid pseudoaneurysms, and the formation of carotid-cavernous fistulas.2 The incidence of involvement of the carotid canal in skull base fractures has been reported to be around 24%, with around 11% of this group developing internal carotid artery injuries.3 As such, the presence of fractures involving the petrous carotid canal is an indication for CT or MR angiography to further evaluate the internal carotid artery.4

Short term clinical and patient reported outcomes following Virtual Fracture Clinic management of fifth metatarsal fractures

IntroductionFracture clinics are experiencing increased referrals and decreased capacity. Virtual fracture clinics (VFC) are an efficient, safe, and cost-effective solution for specified injury presentations. There is currently a lack of evidence to support the use of a VFC model in the management of 5th metatarsal base fractures. This study aims to assess clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction with the management of 5th metatarsal base fractures in VFC. We hypothesise that it is both safe and cost effectiveness. MethodsPatients presenting to VFC at our major trauma centre with a 5th metatarsal base fracture, between January 2019 and December 2019, were included. Patient demographics, clinic appointments, complication and operative rates were analysed. Patients received standardised VFC treatment; walker boot/full weight bearing, rehabilitation information and instructions to contact VFC if symptoms of pain persist after 4 months. Minimum follow-up was one year; Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaires (MOXFQ) were distributed. A basic cost analysis was performed. Results126 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 41.6 years (18–92). Average time from ED attendance to VFC review was 2 days (1 – 5). Fractures were classified according to the Lawrence and Botte Classification with 104 (82%) zone 1 fractures, 15 (12%) zone 2 fractures and 7 (6%) zone 3 fractures. At VFC, 125/126 were discharged. 12 patients (9.5%) arranged further follow-up after initial discharge; pain the reason in all cases. There was 1 non-union during the study period. Average MOXFQ score post 1 year was 0.4/64, with only 11 patients scoring more than 0. In total, 248 face-to-face clinic visits were saved. ConclusionOur experience demonstrates that the management of 5th metatarsal base fractures in the VFC setting, with a well-defined protocol, can prove safe, efficient, cost effective and yield good short term clinical outcomes.

Does Alcohol Use Influence Hospitalization Outcomes in Adults Suffering Craniomaxillofacial Fractures From Street Fighting?

This retrospective cohort study utilized the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for the years 2016-2018. Incidences of street fighting were identified using the corresponding ICD-10 codes. To determine whether alcohol use (measured by blood alcohol content (BAC)) in patients sustaining maxillofacial trauma from hand-to-hand fighting influence hospitalization outcomes. The primary predictor variable was BAC stratified into six categories of increasing magnitude. The primary outcome variable was mean length of hospital stay (days). The secondary outcome variable was total hospital charges (US dollars). Our final sample consisted of 3038 craniomaxillofacial fractures. Each additional year in age added +$545 in hospital charges (P < .01). Non-elective admissions added $14210 in hospital charges (P < .05). Patients admitted in 2018 experienced approximately $7537 more in hospital charges (P < .01). Le Fort fractures (+$61921; P < .01), mandible fractures (+$13227, P < .01), and skull base fractures (+$22170; P < .05) were all independently associated with increased hospital charges. Skull base fractures added +7.6days to the hospital stay (P < .01) and each additional year in patient age added +.1days to the length of the hospital stay (P < .01). BAC levels did not increase length of stay or hospitalization charges. Le Fort fractures, mandible fractures, and skull base fracture each independently increased hospital charges. This reflects the necessary care (ie, ICU) and treatment (ie, ORIF) of such fractures. Older adults and elderly patients are associated with increased length of stay and hospital charges-they are likely to struggle in navigating the healthcare system and face socioeconomic barriers to discharge.

Innsbruck-style Retromandibular Anterior Trans-parotid Approach for Condylar Fractures: A Retrospective Review of 39 Fractures

Background:The retromandibular anterior trans-parotid (RAT) approach and a triangular-positioned double mini-plate osteosynthesis (TDO) technique have been reported from Innsbruck Medical University. This minimally invasive technique involves direct visualization of the condyle and is associated with lower incidence of facial palsy.Methods:A retrospective review was performed on the RAT approach and TDO technique conducted by a surgeon and team at two hospitals in Tokyo during a period of 3 years and 10 months.Results:This technique was performed on 35 patients with 39 condylar fractures. Sixty-nine percent of cases were due to accidental fall, 17% to traffic accidents, and 9% to sports. Furthermore, 92% cases were condylar base fractures. Nighty-seven percent of cases achieved good occlusion. The mean maximum mouth opening was 49 ± 1.3 mm. Postoperatively, facial palsy developed in three patients (7.7%), and two of them developed Frey syndrome at approximately 2.5 years postoperatively (5.1%). All patients completely recovered within 3 months postoperatively. One case each of salivary fistula, visible scar, and condylar resorption was found (2.6%). No case of massive bleeding during surgery, hematoma, or TMJ pain after surgery was found.Conclusion:This technique could achieve good occlusion with low incidence of complications and could contribute to early social reintegration among patients.

Queratopatía neurotrófica severa en paciente con compromiso bilateral del reflejo palpebral con diferente sustrato neurológico pos-TEC: reporte de un caso

Se presenta el caso de un paciente que experimentó un TEC severo, asociado a fracturas de huesos craneales y lesión de pares craneales: II par izquierdo, ramas sensitivas corneales y oculares de la primera rama del trigémino derecho, y VII par izquierdo. Secundario a lo anterior, en el paciente se alteró el reflejo palpebral de manera bilateral, pero con un sustrato neurológico diferente. Con el paso del tiempo, ya en fase crónica pos-TEC, el paciente desarrolló una queratopatía neurotrófica severa. Es un caso llamativo por la correlación neuroanatómica que exige y el papel trófico epitelial que representa el nervio trigémino a nivel corneal y porque otorga información al personal médico en neurociencias clínicas para predecir la aparición de una complicación compleja de tratar como lo es la queratopatía neurotrófica. Son escasos los reportes en la literatura de esta temática, asociada a TEC y lesión de diferentes pares craneanos.

Six-Week Radiographic Follow-up Does Not Change Management for Nonoperatively Treated Extraarticular Metacarpal Shaft Fractures.

Metacarpal fractures are common and account for over 30% of all hand fractures. Previous literature has shown similar outcomes between operative and nonoperative management of metacarpal shaft fractures. There is little information regarding the natural history of conservatively managed metacarpal shaft fractures and changes in management based on follow-up radiographs. A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients who presented to a single institution with an extraarticular metacarpal shaft or base fracture between 2015 and 2019. Thirty-one patients with 37 metacarpal fractures were included for review: average age 41 years, male 48%, right hand dominant 91%, and average follow-up duration 7.3 weeks. At follow-up, a change of 2.4° in angulation (P = .0005) and a change in shortening of 0.1 mm (P = .0386) were noted over the 6-week time interval. No fractures had malrotation at presentation, and none developed malrotation during the follow-up period. Recent systematic reviews and meta-analysis have suggested that metacarpal fractures treated nonoperatively had similar outcomes to surgical fixation at 12 months of follow-up. We found that extraarticular metacarpal shaft fractures that do not meet operative indications at the initial visit should be expected to heal reliably with minimal change in angulation and shortening over time. The transition to removable brace or no brace at the 2-week follow-up is likely sufficient, and additional follow-up is not necessary and will reduce cost. Level III.