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HAND
Published in: HAND 1/2014

01-03-2014 | Review

Metacarpal fractures: treatment and complications

Authors: Kathleen M. Kollitz, Warren C. Hammert, Nicholas B. Vedder, Jerry I. Huang

Published in: HAND | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Metacarpal fractures comprise between 18–44 % of all hand fractures. Non-thumb metacarpals account for around 88 % of all metacarpal fractures, with the fifth finger most commonly involved [19]. The majority of metacarpal fractures are isolated injuries, which are simple, closed, and stable. While many metacarpal fractures do well without surgery, there is a paucity of literature and persistent controversy to guide the treating physician on the best treatment algorithm. The purpose of this article is to review non-thumb metacarpal anatomy and treatment protocols for nonoperative management of stable fractures, and compare existing literature on surgical techniques for treatment of acute fractures and complications.
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Metadata
Title
Metacarpal fractures: treatment and complications
Authors
Kathleen M. Kollitz
Warren C. Hammert
Nicholas B. Vedder
Jerry I. Huang
Publication date
01-03-2014
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
HAND / Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 1558-9447
Electronic ISSN: 1558-9455
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-013-9562-1

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