Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Orthopedic Surgery

Objective: To compare the results between using intra-medullary k-wires and transverse pinning in fixation of fifth metacarpal's neck fracture regarding union, functional outcome and complications. Background: Fractures of the hand constitute 10% of all skeletal fractures. Metacarpal fractures represent 30 to 40 % of all hand fractures. The small finger ray accounts for 38% of all hand fractures, with a relatively even distribution across the remaining four rays. The neck is the weakest point in the metacarpals, so neck fracture is the most common metacarpal fracture which is known as fighter{u2019}s or boxer{u2019}s fracture. Methods: Thirty patients with 30 fifth metacarpals{u2019} neck fractures were managed by either intra-medullary k-wires or transverse pinning technique from October 2015 to December 2016. Results: The mean radiological union time for the transverse pinning group in this study was 6.2 weeks, while for the intra-medullary pinning group was 6.13. There is no statistically significant difference between the two techniques regarding union and range of motion. Statistical significance is present regarding operative time and complications in favor of transverse pinning. All patients returned to their pre-injury jobs and activities

Issued also as CD