Fracture of the Volar Ulnar Index Metacarpal Base: Literature Review

Abstract

Information regarding the management of intra-articular base fractures of the index metacarpal is scarce. Fractures of the base of the index metacarpal are rare because of the inherent stability of the joint. Of the handful of case reports on this injury, there appear to be 2 main patterns: fractures of the dorsal radial condyle and fractures of the volar ulnar condyle, which are attached to the extensor carpi radialis longus and flexor carpi radialis tendons, respectively. Although majority of previously reported volar fragment fractures were treated with Kirschner wire stabilization, we reported a case that was managed nonsurgically. The case presented is of a 70-year-old man with a fracture of the volar ulnar condyle of the base of the index metacarpal. Although he initially struggled with swelling of the hand and mobility of the fingers, he did well with nonsurgical management and regained full strength in his hand.