About this episode
Author: Sam Killian, M.D. Educational Pearls: Defined as fracture of neck (distal segment) of 5th metacarpal. Intrinsic muscles of hand pull segment to palmar aspect of hand. 30 degrees of angulation is allowed. Any more increases risk of chronic pain, grip strength and grasping deficits, and rotational deformities. Reduce fracture if more than 30 degrees of angulation or if rotation is present. Splint fracture in "ulnar gutter" with goal being flexion at MCP and extension at DIP and PIP. References: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/boxers_fracture/article_em.htm