Finger and hand fractures are common and occur during various traumas. A poorly treated fracture can lead to significant functional sequelae.
⚠️ Objective: Optimal functional recovery avoiding stiffness and pain
It is a break in continuity of a finger bone (phalanx) or palm bone (metacarpal). These fractures are common and occur during various traumas.
Hand function results from the combination of bone structure, ligament stability and muscle power. A poorly treated fracture can lead to significant functional sequelae (stiffness, pain, rotation disorder).
Main signs are pain, swelling, sometimes visible finger deformity. An important sign to look for is rotation disorder: when the patient closes the fist, fingers should normally converge toward the thenar eminence.
Diagnosis is confirmed by X-rays.
Several parameters enter into treatment decision, such as fracture type, displacement, stability, affected finger, professional activity and patient age.
Possible in certain fracture types if:
Necessary in case of:
Surgical principle is to reduce the fracture and fix it with pins, screws or plates, to allow early mobilization.
Regardless of treatment, regular follow-up is necessary to detect possible secondary displacement, infection or compartment syndrome.
Rehabilitation is essential to prevent stiffness, the main sequela of finger fractures. Early mobilization, as soon as fracture stability allows, is the best prevention method.
No, of course not. Complications can occur:
Main sequela. Prevention relies on early mobilization and adapted rehabilitation.
Finger no longer participates in hand movements. Requires intensive rehabilitation.
Consolidation in poor position, may lead to rotation disorder or functional impairment.
Lack of bone consolidation.
The risk is consolidation in poor position (malunion) with finger rotation disorder, joint stiffness, chronic pain, and functional impairment that may require secondary corrective surgery.
Rapid and appropriate care is essential to avoid functional sequelae.
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