What Types of Hand Fractures Are There?
Hand fractures can be categorized based on their location and the nature of the break. Phalangeal fractures occur in the finger bones (phalanges) and are subdivided into proximal, middle, and distal phalanx fractures. Proximal phalanx fractures are near the knuckles, middle phalanx fractures are in the central portion of the fingers, and distal phalanx fractures are near the fingertips, often associated with nail bed injuries. Metacarpal fractures involve the long bones of the hand connecting the wrist to the fingers. A common example is the boxer's fracture, which affects the neck of the fifth metacarpal, usually resulting from a punch.
Intra-articular fractures extend into the joint space, potentially affecting joint movement and stability, and often require more complex treatment. Extra-articular fractures, which do not involve the joint surfaces, are typically managed with immobilization. Comminuted fractures involve multiple bone fragments and are usually the result of high-impact trauma, often necessitating surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone. Understanding the type of fracture is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment plan to ensure optimal healing and function.
