Metacarpal Neck Research Articles

A Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing the Functional Results of Buddy Taping Versus Closed Reduction and Cast Immobilization in Patients With Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures

Although fifth metacarpal neck fractures are typically treated nonsurgically, most often with closed reduction and orthosis immobilization, cast immobilization may not improve outcomes compared with buddy taping without reduction. The aim of this study was to compare functional outcomes of buddytaping versus reduction and cast immobilization in patients with fifth metacarpal neck fractures. Adult patients with acute fifth metacarpal neck fractures with less than 70º volar angulation and without rotational deformity were randomly assigned to be treated either with buddy taping or a cast after closed reduction. The primary outcome was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire score at 9 weeks. Secondary outcomes included the DASH score at 3 weeks and 1 year, range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint, pain, grip strength, return to work, radiographic angulation, and complication rate. We recruited 72 patients between August 2016 and January 2018. After 3 weeks, the DASH score was significantly lower for patients treated with buddy taping (19.7 ± 19.7) compared with cast immobilization (44.6 ± 15.0). At 9 weeks, clinical outcomes in the buddy taping group were better in terms of range of motion and DASH score, with a mean difference of 6.3 points, which did not exceed the minimally clinically important difference. There were more complications in the cast immobilization group. Fracture angulation after reduction was followed by a loss of reduction at 3 weeks' follow-up and equivalent residual radiographic volar angulation was observed at 3 and 9 weeks after injury in both groups. Duration of time off from work was 28 days shorter with buddy taping compared with cast treatment. There is no benefit to reduction and orthosis immobilization of fifth metacarpal neck fractures with an initial angulation less than 70°. Use of buddy taping and early mobilization had good clinical results as well as significant improvement in time lost from work. Therapeutic I.

Comparative Study between Intramedullary K-wire Fixation Versus Transverse Pinning in Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fracture

Background: Fifth metacarpals and phalangeal fractures are common, and neck fractures of the fifth metacarpal is the commonest. Improper treatment is associated with negative economic impact due to its associated disabilities. Aim of the work: To compare between intra-medullary and transvers K-wires for fifth metacarpal neck fractures. Patients and Methods:Thirty patients with 5th metacarpal neck fracture were included. Fifteen treated by intramedullary k-wire fixation, and fifteen treated by transverse k-wire pinning. Preoperatively, patients were evaluated by clinical, radiological and laboratory studies. Postoperatively, they were assessed clinically and by imaging studies. Objective assessment had been achieved by the total active range of motion [TAM] and hand-grip strength. Results: Both groups were comparable as regard to patient and injury characteristics. Punch was the most common mechanism of injury. The right side was affected in 80%, and the transverse fracture was the most common [reported in 53.3%]. Finally, outcome was slightly better in group 1, except for one patient of non-union. The results based on TAM% were excellent, good, fair and poor among 60.0%, 26.7%, 6.7% and 6.7% in group 1, compared to 83.3%, 40.0%, 0.0% and 6.7% in group 2 with the same order. The time to union ranged between 6 and 14 weeks. Finally, complications were reported in 20% of group 1 and 33.3% of group 2. Conclusion: Intramedullary K-wire Fixation and Transverse Pinning provide an optimal treatment options for Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fracture. Intramedullary K-wire Fixation provide slightly better outcome. However, the superiority is not statistically significant.

Morphological Analysis of Metacarpal Shafts With Respect to Retrograde Intramedullary Headless Screw Fixation.

Background: The use of retrograde intramedullary headless compression screw fixation for metacarpal neck and shaft fractures has been described in the literature. The purpose of this study was to perform a computed tomography (CT)-based morphological analysis of metacarpal size to help surgeons anticipate expected hardware needs. Methods: In all, 108 consecutive hand CT scans were evaluated for the medullary diameter in the volar-dorsal and radial-ulnar planes at the narrowest point of the canal, as well as for the distance from the articular surface to this point. Results were then analyzed by finger and by sex. Results: The ring finger had the smallest average medullary canal diameter for both men and women (2.7 and 2.6 mm, respectively); the small finger had the largest average diameter (3.9 mm) for men and the middle finger (3.6 mm) for women. Radial-ulnar was the rate-limiting dimension in the index, middle, and ring fingers, whereas volar-dorsal was the smallest dimension in the small finger, regardless of sex. Medullary diameter tended to be larger in patients aged more than 50 years. More than 50% of fingers have diameters >3.0 mm, and at least 40% of index, middle, and small fingers have diameters >3.5 mm, which are common diameters of commercially available headless compression screws. Conclusions: When preparing to perform open reduction internal fixation of a metacarpal using retrograde intramedullary headless compression screws, the surgeon needs to be prepared with screws of larger diameters to optimize fixation. Screws of larger diameters are needed to achieve endosteal purchase, regardless of sex.

Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Metacarpal Neck Fracture Treatments: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

PurposeMetacarpal neck fractures may perform well without operative intervention, but the current literature on this topic is fragmented and guidance on managing these injuries needs further refinement. We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the various treatments available for these injuries.MethodsWe searched 3 electronic databases and included any study comparing interventions for metacarpal neck fractures. We conducted a Bayesian network meta-analysis for each outcome.ResultsWe identified a total of 14 studies comparing: antegrade (AIMP) or retrograde (RIMP) intramedullary pinning, buddy strapping, transverse pinning (TP), functional bracing, plating, retrograde cross-pinning, a combination of retrograde cross-pinning and plating, and placement of an orthosis or casting. Although the results were not statistically significant, the effect estimates suggested more favorable pain reduction and functional improvement with AIMP compared with nonsurgical therapies and RIMP in the short term (3 months or less). However, differences between interventions at later follow-up were less extreme; data on short-term pain and function with surgical options outside AIMP and RIMP were unavailable. In addition, compared with both plating and TP, AIMP was associated with significantly higher risks for implant migration and neurological events. There were contrasting findings in union-related outcomes. Plating showed the earliest time to union (not statistically significant) but TP demonstrated the lowest risk for a delayed union.ConclusionsThis review demonstrated that although AIMP may be a viable surgical option for early symptomatic relief after a metacarpal neck fracture, it may also be associated with a greater likelihood of certain postoperative complications. Clinicians should consider patient preferences for the time frame of symptomatic relief when selecting the optimal treatment, and patients should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each available option, especially when considering invasive surgery. Considering the lack of high-quality primary research investigating these interventions, future studies are needed to make more definitive conclusions.Type of study/level of evidenceTherapeutic II.

The fifth metacarpal neck fracture treated by closed reduction and intramedullary fixation with antegrade Kirschner wire plus rod rotation technique

Objective To assess the clinical effects of closed reduction and intramedullary fixation with antegrade Kirschner wire plus rod rotation technique in the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fracture. Methods In this retrospective study, 26 patients with the fifth metacarpal neck fracture were treated by closed reduction and intramedullary fixation with antegrade Kirschner wire plus rod rotation technique at Department of Orthopaedics, Central Hospital of Karamay from August 2015 to October 2017. They were 23 males and 3 females, aged from 12 to 53 years with an average age of 25.2 years. In the intramedullary nailing, a Kirschner wire pre-bent by 10° to 15° was inserted from the base of the fifth metacarpal into the medullary canal before closed reduction. After satisfactory reduction was achieved, the Kirschner wire was inserted across the fracture site into the metacarpal head for further reduction and fixation using rod rotation technique. After operation, a plaster was applied to protect the fixation for 2 weeks. Functional exercise was started after removal of the plaster. The Kirschner wire was not removed under local anaesthesia at the outpatient department until about 10 to 16 weeks postoperation when X-ray showed fracture healing. Records of their operation time, head/shaft angle of the fifth affected metacarpal, active range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joints and Total Active Movement (TAM) of hand function at the last follow-up were collected. Results Their operation time averaged 21 minutes (from 12 to 35 minutes). Anatomical reduction was achieved in 23 cases but not in 3 ones whose metacarpal head/shaft angle and alignment were obviously improved. Follow-ups for 6 to 29 months (average, 15.8 months) showed all the patients obtained solid fracture healing with no infection or delayed fracture healing. The head/shaft angle was improved significantly from preoperative 61.2°±11.2° to postoperative 14.7°±3.5° (P 0.05). The active range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint was 89.3°±4.2° after fixation removal, not significantly different from that of the healthy side (90.7°±1.5°) (P>0.05). According to TAM scores at the last follow-up, 22 cases were rated as excellent, 3 as good and one as fair. Conclusion In the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fracture, closed reduction and intramedullary fixation with antegrade Kirschner wire plus rod rotation technique is effective, because it is simple and limitedly invasive, and leads to limited complications, low costs and secondary reduction. Key words: Metacarpal bone; Fracture fixation, intramedullary; Bone nail; Fifth metacarpal neck fracture; Rod rotation

Comparative study between Antegrade Intramedullary K-wires Fixation versus Transfixing K-wires of the 5th Metacarpal Neck Fractures

The neck of the 5th metacarpal fractures ‘‘Boxer Fractures’’ are so common fractures of the hand . Mostly, the dominant hand is affected as common mode of trauma is punching .The appropriate treatment for a Boxer’s fracture varies based on whether the fracture is open or closed, the degree of angulation and rotation .The majority of closed Boxer’s fractures treated conservatively. But surgery is preferred for those have palmar angulation exceeds 30o , malrotation , Irreducible or shortening >3 mm. This study aims to compare clinical and radiological results and the complication rates after reduction and fixation of closed Boxer fractures using antegrade intramedullary versus percutaneous Transfixing K wires. Forty adult patients above fifteen with closed isolated Boxer fracture were included in a prospective comparative randomized study. Twenty patients treated with percuaneous transfixing K wires &others treated with antegrade intramedullary K wires . Ulnar gutter splint was done for 2 weeks postoperatively. Early range of motion is allowed after 2 weeks . Removal of transfixing K wires done after one and half month postoperatively. But were buried under the skin in other group . Follow-up of mean 6 months for radiographic and clinical results in clauses of union time and rate, complication rate, range of motion and power of hand grip . Radiographic and clinical outcomes showed no statistical dissimilarity in union time, rate of complications , postoperative pain, range of motion and power of hand grip. Both techniques are comparable and simple techniques with no significant complications.

Fixation of fifth metacarpal neck fractures: a comparison of medial locking plates with intramedullary K-wires.

Surgical treatment for metacarpal neck fractures may be indicated for malrotation, palmar angulation exceeding 30° or metacarpal shortening exceeding 3 mm, although these thresholds have not been firmly established. In a retrospective study, we compared the clinical and radiographic results of 54 patients with displaced fifth metacarpal neck fractures who were treated with either medial locking plates (14 patients) or retrograde intramedullary K-wires (40 patients). At a mean follow-up of 26 months (range 12 to 62), metacarpal shortening and angulation were 2 mm greater and 4° greater, respectively, in the K-wire group. The plate group had an earlier return to work and greater aesthetic satisfaction, but operative time and complication incidence were higher. Range of motion, time to union, grip strength and Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were similar. We conclude that medial plating offers no clear advantage over K-wire fixation in treating metacarpal neck fractures. Level of evidence: III.

Flexible Stable Intramedullary Nailing for the Management of Metacarpal Neck Fractures

Introduction When dealing with metacarpal neck fractures, the aim of treatment should include clinical and radiological objectives. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of flexible stable intramedullary nailing for the management of metacarpal neck fractures.Materials and Methods A total of twenty four patients (22 males and 2 females; mean age: 28.2 ± 7.7 years) with metacarpal neck fractures (second in 7 patients and fifth in 17 patients) whether isolated or associated with other body injuries and managed by percutaneous flexible stable intramedullary nailing were reviewed for a retrospective case series. Personal interviews were conducted together with clinical and radiological assessments. The final results were recorded at the time of personal interviews.Results The mean duration of surgery was 19.3 ± 2.5 minutes. The mean time of radiological union was 5 ± 1.3 weeks. The mean postoperative active range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint was 102.4 ± 11 degrees. The mean supination power of the involved hand in comparison to the contralateral side was 97.8 ± 3.4%, whereas the pronation power percentage was 99.2% ± 1.6. The mean power grip percentage to the contralateral side was 96.4 ± 2.9%, whereas the mean percentage of the pinch grip was 96.1 ± 4.2%. The mean postoperative DASH (Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score was 0.3 ± 0.5.Conclusion Percutaneous flexible stable intramedullary nailing for the treatment of metacarpal neck fractures has expanded the armamentarium of the orthopaedic surgeons as an easy, cost-effective technique overcoming all possible deformities and allowing early and reliable active rehabilitation.Level of Evidence This is a Type IV, therapeutic retrospective case series.

Osteosynthesis of fifth metacarpal neck fractures with a photodynamic polymer bone stabilization system.

Metacarpal neck fractures with severe displacement are commonly treated surgically with intramedullary Kirschner wires. We present the results of treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures using a light curable intramedullary photodynamic polymer (IlluminOss™, IlluminOss Medical Inc., East Providence, RI, USA). Twenty-nine patients with isolated displaced fifth metacarpal neck fractures were included and followed up for 12-24 weeks. All fractures had radiologically healed after 3 months. In two cases, a secondary loss of reduction was seen, which did not require further correction. During the follow-up period, range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint was 89% after 6 weeks and increased to 100% after 3 months compared with the uninjured side. Grip strength improved over time from 61% to 85%. No implant removal was necessary. We conclude that osteosynthesis using an intramedullary photodynamic polymer is a reliable treatment option for displaced fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck. Level of evidence: IV.

Efficacy evaluation of closed reduction of fifth metacarpal neck fractures in children

This article covers the retrospective analysis of the results of treatment of 47 children aged 9 to 17 years with V metacarpal neck fractures, based on the data of radiation studies. The treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures, without reduction, does not have a reliable positive result. At large angles of deformity of the V neck of the metacarpal (>45°), the use of closed reduction leads to a significant positive therapeutic effect in the immediate observation period. However, from our point of view, the persistence of the displacement V metacarpal bone with sufficiently large degree in certain cases and the presence of posttraumatic changes in the structure of the heads, subcapital and growth zones in the observed patients cannot satisfy specialists from the standpoint of modern children’s traumatology. Thus, changes in the structure of the heads and subcapital zones in the long-term radiological control of the group were found in 11. 1% of patients who were treated without reduction with a stabilizing plaster cast and in 55% of patients who underwent closed reduction of the metacarpal fractures. The predominance of the narrowing of the growth zone of the injured V metacarpal bone occurs in patients who undergo a closed manual reduction, which may be due to the traumatic effect on the physical zone of the primary force or reduction manipulations. All this indicates the feasibility of further scientific research of this problem with the prospect of developing therapeutic technologies that allow to achieve a complete anatomical reposition of the metacarpal bones in pediatric patients.

Variation Amongst Orthopedic Surgeons When Treating Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures in the Pediatric Population

Variation Amongst Orthopedic Surgeons When Treating Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures in the Pediatric Population

Variation Amongst Orthopedic Surgeons When Treating Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures in the Pediatric Population

Introduction: Fifth metacarpal neck fractures are common fractures affecting the pediatric population. However, no true standardization exists regarding their treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine if variation exists amongst orthopedic surgeons in treating pediatric fifth metacarpal neck fractures and determine the factors regarding this variation. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five sets of images of pediatric fifth metacarpal …

Pediatric Hand Injuries Requiring Closed Reduction at a Tertiary Pediatric Care Center.

Background: Hand fractures and dislocations are common injuries in the pediatric population. This study aims to characterize the pediatric hand injuries that required closed reduction and identify those that required multiple reduction attempts. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out in patients younger than 18 years of age with hand fractures or dislocations who underwent closed reduction in the emergency department (ED). Patients who ultimately required surgical reduction and fixation were not included. Results: Of the 310 hand injuries identified, 148 (114 fractures and 34 dislocations) underwent closed reduction in the ED; 7.4% of those required repeat reduction. Hand injuries that most often required repeat reduction included metacarpophalangeal joint dislocations (20.0%) and proximal phalanx neck (16.7%), metacarpal shaft (15.4%), metacarpal neck (6.2%), and proximal phalanx base (5.6%) fractures. No modifiable risk factors predicting the need for repeat reduction were identified. Conclusions: Some pediatric hand injuries are more likely to require repeat closed reduction by a hand surgeon. This retrospective study is the first step toward quality improvement as it provides opportunities for further research into the factors contributing to reductions that are unsuccessful at the first attempt. Identification of these factors and implementation of quality improvement measures are necessary to ensure the effective treatment of all pediatric hand injuries.

A Simple Technique to Improve the Accuracy of Plaster Molding in Metacarpal Neck Fractures

Metacarpal neck fractures are mostly reduced in A&E or in fracture clinic. Once the cast is applied a simple technique is described to locate the metacarpal head. On the uninjured hand, measurement is taken from the tip of corresponding finger to the metacarpal head. This measurement is transferred on to the cast for further reduction and moulding. This technique provides a reliable outcome.

Comparison of functional metacarpal splint and ulnar gutter splint in the treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures: a prospective comparative study

BackgroundFifth metacarpal fractures are the most common fractures of the hand. These fractures are generally treated with conservative methods. The aim of this study was to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of two conservative treatment methods, functional metacarpal splint(FMS) and ulnar gutter splint(UGS), for the treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures.MethodsA prospective comparative study was designed to assess the conservative treatment of isolated and closed stable fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck. In total, 58 patients were included in the study and were treated with FMS or UGS after fracture reduction in a consecutive order. Angulation, shortening and functional outcome (QuickDASH scores and grip strengths) were evaluated at the 2nd and 6th months.ResultsForty patients returned for follow-up. Twenty-two patients were treated with FMS, and 18 patients were treated with UGS. The average age was 28 years (SD ± 12, range;18–43) in the FMS group and 30 years (SD ± 14, range;18–58) in the UGS group. After reduction, significant correction was achieved in both groups, but the average angulation was lower in the FMS group(16 ± 7) compared with the UGS group (21 ± 8)(p = 0.043). However, this better initial reduction in FMS group(16 ± 7) could not be maintained in the 1st month follow-up (21 ± 5) (p = 0.009). In the FMS group, the improvement in QuickDASH scores between the 2nd and 6th month follow-up was significant (p = 0.003) but not in the UGS group(p = 0.075). When the expected grip strengths were calculated, the FMS group reached the expected strength values at the 2nd month follow-up, whereas the UGS group still exhibited significantly lower grip strength at the 2nd month follow-up(p = 0.008). However, at the end of the 6th month follow-up, both groups exhibited similar reduction, QuickDASH and grip strength values.ConclusionsIn stable 5th metacarpal neck fractures, FMS is adequate to prevent loss of reduction and yields faster improvement in clinical scores with earlier gain of normal grip strength compared with UGS. However, in the long term, both FMS and UGS methods yield similar radiological and clinical outcomes. Patient comfort and compliance may be better with FMS due to less joint restriction, and these findings should be considered when deciding the treatment method.Trial registrationISRCTN79534571The date of registration: 01/04/2019Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic, II.

Intramedullary Screw Fixation of Metacarpal Fractures Results in Excellent Functional Outcomes: A Literature Review.

Intramedullary fixation of a comminuted subcapital metacarpal fracture using a headless compression screw was first described in 2010. The purpose of this study was to identify and evaluate all studies reporting clinical outcomes of intramedullary screw fixation of metacarpal fractures. A comprehensive search of the literature was performed under Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify all relevant studies. Outcome measures included mean follow-up, evidence of radiographic union, functional outcomes, and quality-of-life measures. Nine articles for a total of 169 metacarpal fractures were identified. Average patient age was 32 years; 86.5 percent of the patients were men; and the majority of fractures occurred in the small finger (74 percent). Most fractures occurred in the neck (n = 66), followed by shaft (n = 31) and head (n = 10). The average follow-up was 11 months, with an average metacarpophalangeal joint flexion of 86 degrees (n = 83) and digit total active motion of 251 degrees (n = 72). Radiographic union was achieved in 100% of reported cases (n = 132) at or before the latest follow-up. Grip strength in four studies showed an average of 96 percent compared to the contralateral hand. No serious complications were reported. Nine minor complications were reported, including four cases of hardware removal in asymptomatic patients. The review of the literature suggests intramedullary fixation of metacarpal neck and shaft fractures using headless compression screws has thus far proven to be a safe and successful surgical treatment option resulting in excellent clinical outcomes.

Low Rate of Complications Following Intramedullary Headless Compression Screw Fixation of Metacarpal Fractures.

Background: There has been a recent increase in the use of headless compression screws for fixation of metacarpal neck and shaft fractures as they offer several advantages, and minimal complications have been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical complications and their solutions following retrograde intramedullary headless compression screw fixation of metacarpal fractures. We describe complications and the approach to their management. Methods: We performed a multicenter case series through retrospective review of all patients treated with intramedullary headless screw fixation of metacarpal fractures by 3 fellowship-trained hand surgeons. Patient demographics, implant used, type of complication, pre- and postoperative radiographs, operative reports, and sequelae were reviewed for each case. We defined complications as infection, loss of fixation, hardware failure, malrotation, nonunion, malunion, metal allergy, and any repeat surgical intervention. Results: Four complications (2.5%) were identified through the review of 160 total metacarpal fractures. One complication was a nickel allergy, one was a broken screw after repeat trauma, and 2 patients had bent intramedullary screws. Screw removal in 3 patients was simple and without complications or persistent limitations. One bent screw with a refracture was left in place. No serious complications were seen. Conclusion: Intramedullary screw fixation of metacarpal fractures is safe with a low incidence of complications (2.5%) that can be safely and effectively managed.

Clinical Outcomes of Limited Open Intramedullary Headless Screw Fixation of Metacarpal Fractures in 91 Consecutive Patients.

Background: The objective of the study is to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients treated with limited-open retrograde intramedullary headless screw (IMHS) fixation for metacarpal neck and shaft fractures. Methods: Retrospective review of 91 consecutive patients (79 men; 12 women), mean age 28 (range =15-69) years, treated with IMHS fixation for acute displaced metacarpal neck (N = 56) and shaft (N = 35) fractures at a single institution. Mean follow-up was 10 (range = 1-71, median = 3) months. Preoperative mean magnitude of metacarpal neck angulation was 48° (range = 0°-90°), and mean shaft angulation was 42° (range = 0°-70°). Active motion was initiated within 5 days postoperatively. Clinical outcomes were assessed with digital goniometry, grip strength, and return to full activity. The time to radiographic union and radiographic arthrosis was assessed. Results: All 91 patients achieved full functional arc of metacarpophalangeal (MCP) motion, and all achieved full active MCP extension or hyperextension. At mean follow-up of 10 months, postoperative mean MCP joint flexion-extension arc was 88° (range = 55°-110°). Grip strength was available for 52 patients and measured 104.1% of the contralateral hand (range = 58%-230%). Radiographic union data were available for 86 patients. Seventy-six percent (65/86) achieved radiographic union by the end of week 6 (range = 2-10 weeks). Early arthrosis was noted in 1 patient at the MCP. There were 3 cases of shaft refracture after recurrent blunt trauma, following prior evidence of full osseous union. Conclusions: The IMHS fixation is safe, reliable, and durable for metacarpal neck/subcapital, axially stable shaft fractures, and select delayed unions or malunions. It allows for early postoperative motion without affecting union rates and obviates immobilization. This technique offers distinct advantages over formal open reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire techniques.

Comparison study of three fixation methods for the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fractures

Objective To compare the clinical efficacy of closed reduction Kirschner wire transverse fixation, open reduction Kirschner wire cross fixation and open reduction plate screw fixation in the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fractures. Methods From March 2010 to January 2017, 83 patients with fresh closed fifth metacarpal neck fractures were treated by closed reduction Kirschner wire transverse fixation (34 cases as group A), open reduction Kirschner wire cross fixation (22 cases as group B) and open reduction plate screw fixation (27 cases as group C). According to the operation time, the number of C-arm fluoroscopy, complications, joint function recovery, grip strength and patient satisfaction, the efficacy of the three surgical methods was evaluated comprehensively. Results All the 83 patients were follow-up for 7 to 33 months with an average of 16.5 months. All the fractures achieved anatomical reduction and bone healing. At the last follow-up, there were no significant differences in grip strength, fracture healing time, complications and C-arm fluoroscopy frequency among the three groups (P>0.05). The operative time between group A and group B, group A and group C were significantly different (P 0.05). According to the upper extremity function evaluation criteria issued by the Hand Surgery Society of the Chinese Medical Association, the results were rated as excellent in 27 cases, good in 4 cases and fair in 3 cases with the excellent and good rate being 91.2% for group A; the results were rated as excellent in 15 cases, good in 5 cases and fair in 2 cases with the excellent and good rate being 90.9% for group B; the results were rated as excellent in 16 cases, good in 7 cases and fair in 4 cases with the excellent and good rate being 85.2% for group C. Conclusion The application of closed reduction Kirschner wire transverse fixation in the treatment of fresh closed fifth metacarpal neck fractures has the advantages of easy operation, short operation time, stable fixation, little joint and tendon irritation and allowing early functional exercise. It has satisfactory efficacy and is worthy of clinical promotion. Key words: Metacarpal bones; Fractures,bone; Comparative study; Kirschner wire; Plate

A single antegrade intramedullary k-wire for fifth metacarpal neck fractures.

Antegrade intramedullary nailing (AIMN) using 2k-wires seems to be superior to other modalities in treating displaced fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck (FFMN). Few reports demonstrated similar results retrospective with a single k-wire. The aim of the study is to describe our single k-wire technique and evaluate the related results. This is a retrospective study of a continuous series of patients treated with a single intramedullary k-wire for FFMN. It includes 30 patients who met the criteria for surgery: a dorsal angulation of more than 30°, malrotation, or both. The mean clinical follow-up period was 7 ± 14.9 months. The mean pre-operative angle was 50° ± 11.35° and the mean immediate post-operative angle was 4.86° ± 2.8°. The mean immediate correction was 47° ± 9.3°. The mean correction at last follow-up was 45.14° ± 8.55°. Healing was obtained in all patients and bone union was achieved at a mean of 5.6 ± 1.2 weeks. The mean operative time was 8.5min. The mean C-arm usage (number of clicks) was 7.2 times. The mean exposure radiation time was calculated at 3.6s. The mean radiation dose was 0.08mGy/mm2. The mean satisfaction score was 1.26 ± 0.45. Quick-DASH and EQ-5D scores yielded excellent values. With potential benefits like lesser surgical time, radiation and cost, the use of a single AIMN could be safer, quicker and cheaper while reproducing similar clinical, functional and radiological outcomes to those reported with the use of 2k-wires.