What type of splint is used for a metacarpal fracture?
A gutter splint or cast should be used to immobilize a metacarpal fracture. This is often definitive management for fractures that meet acceptable radiographic parameters. A gutter splint may be modified based on the location of the injured finger.
When do you use ulnar gutter splints?
An ulnar gutter splint is a flexible splint that is used to support, stabilize, and immobilize injuries, dislocations and fractures of the hands, fingers, or wrists. Splints are usually applied to reduce movement and provide support and comfort by stabilizing an injury.
How do you splint a metacarpal fracture?
Generally, the wrist should be placed in 20-30° of extension; the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints should be immobilized in 70-90° of flexion, with the dorsal aspect of the splint extending to the IP joints; and the volar aspect should end at the distal palmar crease.
How is a 4th metacarpal fracture treated?
Treatment of metacarpal fractures and dislocations is primarily nonoperative. Management usually consists of sedation or local anesthesia, followed by closed reduction of the fracture or dislocation. A forearm-based splint is then applied and held in place with a loose compressive wrap.
Does 5th metacarpal fracture need surgery?
Metacarpal fracture – undisplaced If your metacarpal fracture is stable and undisplaced (ie the fragments are still in their normal position) it is unlikely that you will need surgery. Your fracture can be treated with splinting, taping or casting (or a combination of all three of these).
What is a ulnar gutter splint used for?
An ulnar gutter splint (see the image below) can be used for various injuries to the upper extremities, including the following: Soft-tissue hand injuries to the fourth and fifth fingers. Fourth and fifth metacarpal fractures. Fractures of the fourth and fifth phalanges.
When do you use a volar splint?
A volar splint can be used for various injuries, including the following:
- Soft-tissue injuries of the wrist and hand.
- Fractures of the second, third, and fourth metacarpals.
- Fractures of the second, third, and fourth phalanges.
- Positioning for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Certain wrist fractures, including a pisiform fracture.
Do you need a cast for a metacarpal fracture?
Treatment. Treatment of a metacarpal fracture can usually be accomplished with the use of a cast. A cast is usually worn for three to six weeks, followed by gentle motion exercises. 2 Occasionally, if stiffness becomes a problem after cast treatment, a hand therapist will be recommended to work with you.
Which position is best for metacarpal bone fracture?
Most commonly, metacarpal fractures have apex dorsal angulation. Most authors recommend nonoperative management for up to 40°–50° of apex dorsal angulation in the small finger, 30° at the ring finger, 20° at the middle finger, and 15° at the index finger [8, 12].
How painful is a metacarpal fracture?
When you’ve fractured a metacarpal bone, you will probably have pain when you try to form a fist, and you may also find that your fingers are stiff. Other symptoms that can suggest that you’ve suffered a metacarpal fracture include: Immediate pain in the hand.
How tight should splints be?
if you have NUMBNESS/TINGLING of your fingers/hand/arm/toes/foot/leg. Remember: move them!!! if your cast feels TOO TIGHT. Your cast was applied in such a way as to minimize excessive movement and therefore should be snug but NOT too tight (there is a difference!).
