Fracture of the body of the hamate bone. Case report

A patient with a fracture of the body of the hamate bone associated with a proximal and dorsal subluxation of the fifth metacarpal is reported. Treatment consisted of closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. A short discussion on fractures of the hamate bone is given.     

Fracture of the body of the hamate bone

Summary A patient with a fracture of the body of the hamate bone associated with a proximal and dorsal subluxation of the fifth metacarpal is reported. Treatment consisted of closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. A short discussion on fractures of the hamate bone is given.

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Zusammenfassung Bericht über einen Patienten mit Fraktur im Bereiche des Körpers des Os hamatum und gleichzeitiger Subluxation des 5. Metacarpale nach proximal und dorsal. Die Behandlung bestand in geschlossener Reposition und Kirschnerdraht-Fixation. Die Frakturen des Os hamatum werden kurz diskutiert.

     

骑缝钉固定治疗钩掌关节损伤

目的：探讨应用骑缝钉固定治疗钩掌关节损伤的疗效。方法： 2009年5月至2012年11月应用骑缝钉固定治疗钩掌关节损伤16例,其中男10例,女6例;年龄21～57岁,平均33.6岁。单纯第4和（或）第5掌骨基底脱位11例;第4和（或）第5掌骨基底脱位伴钩骨背侧撕脱性骨折5例。定期复查X线片了解骨折愈合、关节复位及骑缝钉位置情况,采用手指关节总活动度（TAM）系统评定法评价腕掌关节及掌指关节功能。结果：所有患者切口均I期愈合,未发生感染。所有病例均获随访,时间6～24个月,平均（10.0±2.7）个月,无再发脱位,内固定位置良好,无退钉、断钉。5例伴有钩骨背侧撕脱性骨折的患者获得良好骨性愈合。腕掌关节及掌指关节功能：优10例,良5例,中1例。结论：骑缝钉固定治疗钩掌关节损伤具有操作简单,创伤小,固定可靠,术后早期功能锻炼等优点,是治疗钩掌关节损伤的理想手术方式。     

The Measurement of the Inclination Angle of the Hamate and Analysis of the Inclination Angle for the Rotation Deformity of the Little Finger in the Fixation of the Carpometacarpal Joint

ObjectiveComplex base fractures of the fifth metacarpal bone and dislocation of the fifth carpometacarpal joint are more prone to internal rotation deformity of the little finger sequence after fixation with a transarticular plate. In the past, we have neglected that there is actually a certain angle of external rotation in the hamate surface of transarticular fixation. This study measured the inclination angle of the hamate surface relative to the fifth metacarpal surface for clinical reference.MethodsIn a prospective single‐center study, we investigated the tilt angle of 60 normal hamates. The study included thin‐layer computed tomography (CT) data from 60 patients from the orthopaedic clinic and inpatient unit from January 2017 to March 2020, including 34 men and 26 women who were 15~59 years old, average 35 years old. The CT data of 60 cases in Dicom format of the hand was input into Mimics and 3‐Matics software for three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction and measuring the angle α between hamate surface and the fifth metacarpal surface. According to the possible placement of the transarticular plate on the fifth metacarpal surface, we measured the angle β between the hamate surface 1 and the fifth metacarpal surface and the angle γ between the hamate surface 2 and the fifth metacarpal surface.ResultsThe average angle between the hamate surface and the fifth metacarpal surface was 11.66°. The hamate surfaces 1 and 2 have an external rotation angle of 7.30° and 7.51° on average with respect to the fifth metacarpal surface, respectively. There is no statistically significant difference in the angles between the two groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThe horizontal angle of the dorsal side of the hamate is different from the back of the fifth metacarpal surface, and the hamate has a certain external rotation angle with respect to the fifth metacarpal surface. No matter how the transarticular plate is placed, the plate always has a certain external rotation angle relative to the fifth metacarpal surface. When the fixation is across the fifth carpometacarpal joint, if the plate does not twist and shape, it will inevitably cause internal rotation of the fifth metacarpal, resulting in internal rotation deformity of the little finger sequence.     

Comparison of the intramedullary nail and low-profile plate for unstable metacarpal neck fractures

BackgroundThere is no robust evidence for the best treatment practice for metacarpal neck fractures. The purpose of this comparative study was to investigate whether the intramedullary nail or low-profile plate allows for good clinical and radiological results for displaced metacarpal neck fractures.MethodsWe prospectively reviewed 30 patients with a displaced metacarpal neck fracture who underwent surgery: 15 with intramedullary nails and 15 with low-profile plates. Radiographic and clinical outcomes of both groups were compared. Objective findings of range of finger motion and grip strength were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.ResultsThere was no non-union, and postoperative complications included extensor tendon rupture in one and transient ulnar nerve neuritis in two. Radiological parameters after the fracture healing were comparable between the two groups. Postoperative range of finger motion was better in patients with the intramedullary nail, and acquired grip strength in the low-profile plate group was superior to that in the intramedullary nail group.ConclusionsThe current results indicate that both procedures are highly effective in maintaining fracture restorations. Plate fixation provides earlier recovery of powerful hand function, and intramedullary nailing allows a wide range of finger motion.     

Real frequency of ordinary and atypical sub-trochanteric and diaphyseal fractures in France based on X-rays and medical file analysis

PurposeAtypical sub-trochanteric and femoral shaft fractures have been reported in patients treated with bisphosphonates. Their incidence has been determined from registered data analysis using international codes. Therefore, the aim of our study was to estimate the real frequency of typical and atypical sub-trochanteric or diaphyseal fractures, based on radiological and clinical data compared to registered data.MethodsIn the registers of three large French University Hospitals, patients identified with International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision diagnosis codes for sub-trochanteric or diaphyseal fracture were selected. Frequencies of ordinary and atypical fractures were calculated after both registered data, radiological and clinical files analysis.ResultsAmong the 4592 patients hospitalized for a femoral fracture over 5 years, 574 were identified to have had a sub-trochanteric or femoral shaft fracture. 47.7% of the sub-trochanteric and femoral shaft fractures were misclassified, predominantly in the sub-trochanteric fractures subset. 12 patients had an atypical fracture (4% of the sub-trochanteric and femoral shaft fractures) and 11 fractures presented radiological features of atypical fractures, whereas clinical files analysis revealed they were pathological or traumatic fractures.ConclusionAtypical fractures frequency is very low. Because of their low frequency and the unreliability of registered databases, the risk of atypical fractures is very difficult to estimate retrospectively. A prospective study is needed to clarify the risk factors associated with these fractures.     

AO微型锁定髁钢板治疗第五掌骨颈骨折的疗效观察

【】 目的 探讨第五掌骨颈骨折的治疗方法。 方法 2013年1月~2016年1月,对37例第五掌骨颈骨折应用AO微型锁定髁钢板,进行切开复位内固定桥接治疗,术后早期进行康复功能锻炼。 结果 术后37例随访时间6-15月,无骨折不愈合及延迟愈合,无钢板突出、螺钉松动及伤口感染等并发症。手部功能恢复理想,根据中华医学会手外科学会上肢部分功能手指总的主动活动度评定,优良率达94.6%。 结论 对于第五掌骨颈骨折,应用AO微型锁定髁钢板可获得良好的临床效果,其具有手术简单,创伤小,无明显术后并发症等特点,可作为一种治疗第五掌骨颈骨折的有效方法。     

Evaluation of grip strength in hook of hamate fractures treated with osteosynthesis. Is this surgical treatment necessary?

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in hamate hook fractures and review the literature on this surgical procedure.MethodsWe report the outcomes of ORIF of hamate hook fractures in 13 consecutive patients (12 men and 1 woman; mean age: 32 years (range, 22–48 years)). In eight patients (61%) the fracture was associated with ulnar nerve neuritis in Guyon's canal. We assessed the following clinical data: age, sex, mechanism of injury, side of the injured hand and associated lesions, fracture classification, average time from injury to correct diagnosis, surgical technique, complications, and length of follow-up.All patients underwent radiological imaging, including standard radiographs in two planes (anteroposterior and lateral projections), and a CT study. Functional outcomes evaluated were pain, range of motion, grip strength, Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) and Mayo wrist score.ResultsThe mean follow-up was 36 months (range, 12–144 months). All 13 cases were treated with ORIF of the hook of the hamate. Mean VAS pain score was 5 preoperatively (4–9) and 1 (0–2) postoperatively. All patients returned to pre-injury level and only one patient felt pain on activity. Preoperative modified Mayo wrist score was 51 and the postoperative value was 94. All outcomes scores improved significantly from preoperative values. The patients who participated in sports postoperatively were able to do so at or near pre-injury levels. Postoperative average range of wrist motion was 76° in extension, 71° in flexion, 14° in ulnar deviation, and 21° in radial deviation.Mean grip strength in the hand with the hook fracture was 58 kg compared with 53 Kg in the unaffected hand. All patients returned to their pre-injury level of functioning after 10–12 weeks and there were no complications. Analysis of grip strength revealed values comparable with the unaffected hand.ConclusionORIF of hamate hook fractures is a safe and effective technique to restore normal grip strength and return to pre-injury level. In cases of ulnar nerve neuritis, neurolysis of the deep palmar branch is mandatory.Level of evidenceLevel IV, Therapeutic study.     

Minimal Invasive Fixation of Hamate Hook Fractures Through a Dorsal Percutaneous Approach Using a Mini Compression Screw: An Experimental Feasibility Study

Abstract Purpose:   Isolated fractures of the hamate hook can be treated by conservative or surgical means. Because nonoperative treatment is associated with high nonunion rates, surgical treatment with open reduction and internal fixation through a palmar approach is often preferred. The aim of this study was to refine surgical treatment of hamate hook fractures using a cannulated mini compression screw through a dorsal percutaneous approach. Methods:   Artificial fractures of the hamate hook were created in five male cadaver hands under fluoroscopy. Using an ulnar approach, the hamate hook was fractured at the base (n = 3) and middle third (n = 2) of the hook using an osteotome. Each fracture was visualized by X-ray and computed tomography. Under fluoroscopy, the fracture was stabilized with a 1.1 mm K wire through a dorsal percutaneous approach which guided the introduction of a 3 mm diameter cannulated mini compression screw. The screw position was then controlled by X-ray and computed tomography. Results:   Percutaneous fixation of the fractured hook through the dorsal approach was achieved in all cases. Regardless of the fracture location, all fragments were adapted into anatomically correct positions. No displacement or disruption of the cortex of the hook was observed with central screw positioning. Conclusion:   Minimal invasive repair of isolated hamate hook fractures through a dorsal percutaneous approach is feasible. The special properties of the cannulated mini compression screw allow optimal screw positioning and stable fixation without risk of diplacement or disruption of the hook fragment.     

Hamatometacarpal fracture-dislocation: distinctive three dimensional computed tomographic appearance

We report here two fully documented cases of hamatometacarpal fracture-dislocation following trauma and treated in our hospital. In our cases, the patients suffered hamate fracture in association with metacarpal dislocation. In the first case, a dorsal oblique fracture of the hamate was associated with a dorsal dislocation of the base of the fourth metacarpal. In the second case, a dorsal oblique fracture of the hamate was not associated with a dorsal dislocation of the base of the fifth metacarpal. This diagnosis should be suspected on initial review of plain radiographs, which must include an oblique view because of diagnostic difficulty for this injury. We recommend three dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) in any patient presenting with pain after blunt trauma to the hand to prevent in diagnosis. Open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture is indicated and relevant for displaced fracture.     

An isolated ring finger metacarpal shaft fracture?--beware an associated little finger carpometacarpal joint dislocation

Dislocations of the ulnar carpometacarpal joint are easily missed because of a low index of suspicion as well as their subtle clinical and radiological features. Often, the presence of a more obvious adjacent injury also draws attention away from the carpometacarpal joint. Two cases of ring finger metacarpal shaft fractures with associated little finger carpometacarpal joint dislocations are presented. In both cases, the metacarpal fractures were diagnosed but the carpometacarpal joint dislocations were initially overlooked. The presence of an apparently isolated ring finger metacarpal fracture due to an indirect force should raise the possibility of an associated carpometacarpal joint injury.     

A novel hamatometacarpal fracture-dislocation classification system based on CT scan

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to devise a novel classification of a hamatometacarpal fracture–dislocation based on the preoperative computed tomography (CT) and plain radiography that provided more information to surgeons regarding appropriate treatment methods.Materials and methodsTwenty-one patients with a hamatometacarpal fracture–dislocation were enrolled in this study. The classification scheme devised for hamatometacarpal fracture–dislocation is summarised as follows: type I – a simple dislocation; type IIA – a dislocation with the fourth metacarpal base intra-articular fracture; type IIB – a dislocation with a dorsal hamate fracture of less than one-third of the articular surface; and type III – a dislocation with a dorsal hamate fracture of more than one-third of the articular surface.ResultsType I injury was treated conservatively after closed reduction. Type IIA and IIB injuries were treated by percutaneous K-wire fixation. Type III injury was treated by open reduction and internal fixation. All injuries were well managed in both clinical and radiographic evaluations, without apparent complications.ConclusionThe novel classification system for hamatometacarpal fracture–dislocation can be used to establish guidelines for appropriate treatment.     

Complex fracture-dislocation of the carpometacarpal joint associated with a fracture of the hamate: a case report

Abstract We report a case of carpometacarpal dislocation associated with a fracture of the hamate, an extra-articular fracture of the base of the first metacarpal and a rotated volar dislocation of the scaphoid. These lesions are not common and are sometimes misdiagnosed because of nonspecific symptoms and the difficulty of interpreting the radiographs. Open reduction and stabilization with Kirschner wires was performed. We removed the cast and wires after 4 weeks and the patient was sent to a rehabilitation program. When reviewed 18 months later, he had recovered complete hand function without pain or other symptoms, even after heavy manual activities.     

指掌骨骨折内固定术后并发症原因分析及对策

目的：探讨指掌骨骨折内固定术后并发症的原因,提出预防对策。方法：回顾性总结2007年7月至2009年10月内固定手术治疗的342例指掌骨骨折患者,男203例,女139例;年龄18～56岁,平均30.4岁;右手217例,左手125例。第1掌骨38个,第2掌骨47个,第3掌骨52个,第4掌骨40个,第5掌骨39个,近节指骨43个,中节指骨52个,远节指骨48个。克氏针内固定129例,微型钢板内固定153例,单纯微型螺钉固定48例,钢丝捆扎12例。结果：324例获得随访,时间3～15个月,平均8.5个月。74例出现术后并发症,发生率22.84%。术后并发症包括伤口愈合欠佳24例,占7.4%;肌腱粘连54例,占16.67%;骨折畸形愈合34例,占10.49%;骨折不愈合13例,占4.01%;指骨短缩21例,占7.41%。结论：内固定物选择不当、手术操作技术欠佳以及术后没有进行早期很好的康复功能锻炼是术后并发症的主要原因。     

The distribution of hand fractures at the university hospital of north Norway

Background: The objective of this study was to describe the fracture pattern for hand fractures in the Arctic region of Norway. Materials and methods: Using the hospital’s radiological information system and picture archiving and communication system all traumatic hand fractures in the year of 2010 were registered. Fractures in the carpal, metacarpal, and phalangeal bones were included in the study. Results: A total of 593 patients with 691 fractures including 80 carpal, 200 metacarpal, and 411 phalangeal fractures were registered. The most commonly affected bone was the 5th metacarpal bone with a total of 99 fractures (14%), 22 of these (22%) were classified as subcapital or “boxer’s fracture”. Among male patients, the highest frequency of fractures was seen in the age group 10–60 years with a peak between 10–24 years. Adult female patients had most fractures in the age group 50–70 years. Generally, there were no seasonal variations, although a marked decrease of fractures could be seen in December. Triquetral fractures were more common during the winter season. Falling was the most common trauma mechanism. Conclusion: With a few exceptions, hand fractures were not related to particular seasons or weekdays in this material. The distribution of hand fractures was related to age and gender, and some trauma mechanisms were dominating.     

Radiological findings and outcomes of anterior wall fractures in pertrochanteric fractures

BackgroundAnterior wall fractures with comminution at the anterior cortex in pertrochanteric fractures are relatively rare. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and clinical findings of anterior wall fractures in this comparative cohort study.MethodsWe reviewed 516 consecutive patients who underwent internal fixation. Anterior wall fractures were classified into three types: proximal, distal, and proximal/distal. Outcome measures included demographic data, residual anterior cortex length, fracture reduction, tip-apex distance (TAD), sliding distance, bone union, and revision surgery. We compared radiological outcomes between patients with anterior wall fractures and posterior comminuted fractures without an anterior wall fracture. The groups were matched for age and sex.ResultsAnterior wall fractures were noted in 44 patients (8.5%). Residual anterior cortex length was shorter for the proximal/distal type. The distal type was the most common, was the most difficult to achieve an acceptable reduction status for, and was associated with the longest sliding distance. The proportion of unacceptable reduction status was higher for anterior wall fractures. However, there were no statistically significant differences between anterior wall fractures and posterior comminuted fractures without an anterior wall fracture in terms of TAD, sliding distance, bone union, and revision rate.ConclusionsThis study suggests that anterior wall fracture is not a significant predictor of over-sliding distance.     

Balloon kyphoplasty versus percutaneous vertebroplasty for osteoporotic vertebral body compression fractures: clinical and radiological outcomes

BACKGROUND CONTEXTOsteoporotic vertebral body compression fracture are the commonest fractures amongst the other osteoporotic fracture sites. These fragility fractures are the result of low energy mechanical forces that that would not ordinarily result in fracture. Percutaneous vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty has been widely used as minimally invasive procedures to treat painful vertebral compression fractures.PURPOSEAim of the present study was to evaluate radiological, clinical and functional outcome of patients with osteoporotic vertebral body fractures treated with Balloon Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty.STUDY DESIGNProspective cohort studyPATIENT SAMPLE40 patients (Male:15, Female: 25) with average age of 56 +/- 8 years diagnosed with osteoporotic vertebral body compression fracture on clinical and radiological evaluation with no neurological deficit and no other associated fractures were included.OUTCOME MEASURESOperative time, cost for the procedure, gain in vertebral body height, reduction in pain, ability to perform daily routine activities, risk of cement leakage and any other systemic complications were evaluated and compared in both the study groups.METHODSAll the patients underwent conventional Xray, MRI (to rule out acute from chronic fracture, to check compromise of spinal canal and calculate collapse in vertebral body height), Visual analog scaling for severity of pain and difficulty in daily routine activities by Oswestry disability index preoperatively. Post operative clinal, functional, radiological outcome and complications were compared in patients treated with percutaneous vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty.RESULTThere was significant difference in intraoperative time period and procedure cost for the patients treated with Vertebroplasty(50.75min, 25k) in comparison to balloon kyphoplasty (71.95, 50k) with p value being < .001There was significant difference between preoperative and postoperative study parameters in both the study groups but there was no significant difference in post operative study parameters amongst both the study groups with p values >.05 for different parameters, 0.381(Gain in vertebral height), 0.108 (pain relief), 0.846(Oswestry disability index) and 0.197(risk of cement leakage)CONCLUSIONOur study suggested that percutaneous vertebroplasty requires less operative time and is more economical than balloon kyphoplasty. Increase in intraoperative time increases the risk of infection. Though the cases of Intraoperative operative cement leakage were more in percutaneous vertebroplasty but is was not significant. However the final radiological, clinical, functional outcome and overall complications were found to be similar in both the groups. Balloon kyphoplasty provided no added benefit over percutaneous vertebroplasty. A study with larger sample size will be needed to warrant one surgical procedure superior to other in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral body compression fracture.     

Comparison of patients with diagnosed and suspected sacral insufficiency fractures

BackgroundPatients with sacral insufficiency fractures can have a range of symptoms, and because these fractures are difficult to detect using plain radiographs, it can be tough to make a definitive diagnosis of fracture early after injury. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnosis and treatment of patients with known sacral insufficiency fractures to those with suspected insufficiency fractures to clarify the features of sacral insufficiency fractures.MethodsWe compared patients with sacral insufficiency fractures (S group) to those with suspected insufficiency fractures (N group) using demographic data, symptoms, time to definitive diagnosis, radiological methods, and treatments.ResultsPatients in the S group were older than those in the N group (p = 0.0042) and showed less localized sacral pain (p = 0.0042). Almost all of the patients in the S group (74%) required magnetic resonance imaging for definitive diagnosis.ConclusionsSacral insufficiency fractures should not be diagnosed based on the site of pain or using plain radiographs. Patient age and magnetic resonance imaging are more informative to obtain a definitive diagnosis of sacral insufficiency fractures.     

Does concomitant ulnar styloid fracture and distal radius fracture portend poorer outcomes? A meta-analysis of comparative studies

PurposeAn ulnar styloid fracture often occur in association with a distal radial fracture. Whether an ulnar styloid fracture interfere with the results of a distal radial fracture still remains controversial. The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of an accompanying ulnar styloid fracture on clinical outcomes in patients with distal radial fractures.MethodsA meta-analysis of published studies comparing outcomes of distal radial fractures with an ulnar styloid fracture versus isolated distal radial fractures was performed. Outcomes of function results, radiological evaluation, and patient reported scores were analyzed.ResultsTen studies including 1403 distal radius fractures were identified fitting inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in wrist motion, grip strength, radial height, volar angle, ulnar variance, pain score, PRWE score, or SF-36 score for distal radial fractures associated with an ulnar styloid fracture versus isolated distal radial fractures. In final follow up, patients with associated an ulnar styloid fracture had lower radial inclination and higher DASH scores. But there was no significant clinical difference. In addition, we found there was no significant difference of outcomes between union and non-union ulnar styloid fractures.ConclusionsBased on this meta-analysis, we suggest that an associated ulnar styloid fracture does not affect the outcomes of a distal radial fracture and clinicians should be caution in electing operative treatment for patients with an ulnar styloid fracture.