To evaluate the clinical results between conservative and operative treatments and to give guidelines in the treatment of angulated fifth metacarpal neck fracture. Materials and Methods: The 43 cases of fifth metacarpal neck fracture (25 operative cases, 18 conservative case) were reviewed. The functional and radiologic results between two groups were evaluated. Results: Both the operative group (preop.: 41.9°) and the conservative group (preop.: 39.7°) showed satisfactory results (operative group: 15.3°, conservative group: 24.1°) immediately after the correction. The maintenance of angulation correction was superior in operative group (15.7°) than in conservative group (34.2°), and patients' subjective satisfactions were superior in operative group too. Depressed knuckle on dorsum of hand was more frequently observed in conservative group (38.9%) than operative group (4%). Functional result in both groups was good. Conclusion: Because the correction of angulation was not maintained well in conservative group and a large portion of complications often occurred in cases of angulation more than 40°, operative treatment is needed in cases of angulation of fractured site more than 40°in the fifth metacarpal neck fracture.
Purpose : We present our operative experiences with uncommon carpometacarpal (CMC) injuries, excluding the thumb. Materials and Methods : Twenty four fractures and dislocations of the CMC joint excluding thumb, which were followed up for an average of 18 months were reviewed retrospectively. Emphases were placed on associated injuries, radiographic findings, treatment and complications. Results : The average age of patients was 35 years with 14 cases of indirect trauma as an injury mechanism. Eighteen of 24 cases involved the 4-5th CMC joint, one case involved the 2-3rd joint and one case involved the 3-4th joint. In addition, there were 4 cases that involved all of the CMC joints. Seven cases were operated upon by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, 16 cases were treated by open reduction and internal fixation, and 1 case received fusion for neglected injury. Eighteen cases had satisfactory results, 2 cases had residual pain, 2 cases showed a limitation of motion and 2 cases had grip weakness. Conclusion : Proper diagnosis and treatment of CMC joint injuries can reduce complications and avoid additional procedures.
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