Fracture of the 5th metacarpal neck
Aetiology
- Usually caused by a clenched fist striking a hard object
Clinical presentation
Symptoms
- Dorsal hand pain
- Swelling
- Possible deformity
Signs
- Distal part of the fracture is displaced anteriorly, producing a shortening of the affected finger
- Neurovascular exam
Investigations
- X-ray - AP, lateral, oblique
Management
- 'Buddy strap'
- Early mobilisation