Do you have a boxer's fracture?

The Omaha Hand & Wrist Specialists at MD West ONE can properly diagnose and treat boxer's fractures through surgical and non-surgical treatments. If you have the following symptoms, you may want to make an appointment with one of our Board Certified Specialists.

• Pain and swelling in the hand more towards your pinky
• You hand and pinky may appear crooker or deformed
• Difficulty straightening your pinky of moving it without pain

Boxer's Fracture, Surgical Alternatives, and Surgical option(s)

What is a Boxer Fracture?

The hands' metacarpal bones connect the bones in the finger to the bones in the wrist. Each of the five metacarpal bones consists of the base, the shaft, the neck, and the head.

A boxer's fracture is a break in a metacarpal bone that connects the ring finger or the little finger to the wrist. These are known as the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones. Some doctors also expand the definition of a boxer's fracture to include breaks in the second and third metacarpal bones.

Are there any non-surgical treatments?

Once your physician has diagnosed you with a boxer's fracture and determined the extent of your injury, they will tailor a treatment plan to your unique injury.

The most common boxer's fracture treatment involves using a cast or splint for 3-6 weeks. One type of splint may extend from the fingers, with the fingertips exposed, to the forearm near the elbow. Another system that is effective for some boxer's fractures of the little finger is to buddy-tape the ring finger and little finger together. Your doctor will decide what type of splint will create the best results for your fracture.

You also may need to work with a physical therapist for a while as your fracture heals. You will learn exercises to strengthen your hand muscles and keep them from getting stiff.

What if the non-surgical options do not work for me?

If non-surgical treatment is not effective, or if the fracture is severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery for a boxer's fracture typically involves open reduction and internal fixation. In this type of procedure, an incision is made in the skin overlying the fracture, and rods, pins, or screws are implanted in the bones to keep them in place. The wound is closed, and a splint is placed. Once the splint is removed, physical therapy is recommended to strengthen the surrounding muscles and restore function.

Don't wait any longer to get relief. Make an appointment to see one of our orthopedic specialists.

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR SURGERY OF THE HAND

All of the hand surgeons in the practice are recognized members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. It is the oldest and most prestigious medical society dedicated to the hand and upper extremity. The mission of the society is to advance science and practice of hand and upper extremity surgery through education, research, and advocacy on behalf of patients and practitioners. These physicians dedicate their time and energy to improving the patient experience and their knowledge in their field. For more information, visit the American Society for Surgery of the Hand website.