treatment
Last reviewed 01/2018
It is probably best to reduce the fracture although if untreated, the inevitable mal-union does not usually appear to impair function excessively.
Closed reduction by cast pressure may be tried initially. The injured metacarpal is held abducted and extended - usually by flexing the metacarpophalangeal joint. The adequacy of the reduction should be assessed by x-ray and the decision taken as to whether to continue - for 4 weeks - or fix internally.
Internal fixation is the preferred means of reduction - using a small percutaneous pin or Kirschner wires. A small plaster cast is retained for 3 weeks and then removed along with the internal fixator.