A hand fracture is a break in one of the bones of the hand. Hand fractures most commonly occur when people attempt to brace themselves from falling by outstretching their hand. In most cases, a hand fracture will heal without surgical treatment. Some of the more severe hand fractures require surgery to align and stabilize the bones. Pins, screws, wires, or plates can be implanted into the hand to hold the fracture in place.
The following conditions require surgical intervention:
- An open fracture
- Unstable or displaced fracture
- Loose bone fragments that could enter a joint
- Damage to the surrounding ligaments, nerves or blood
- Fractures that extend into a joint
Procedure
- Small incision is made over fracture site
- Fractured bone is set into place
- The appropriate apparatus will be inserted to keep the bone set (pins, screws, wires, plates)
- Incisions are closed with sutures
- Sutures will be wrapped in a surgical bandage
Recovery
- On average 6-8 weeks total recovery; may vary based on severity and location
- If casting is necessary, it will remain for approximately three to four weeks, but gentle hand exercises may begin after about three weeks.
- Pain and swelling may be present which can be controlled by icing, elevated and taking pain medications, if necessary.
- Numbness may be present at incision site
- You will be given suture care instructions
- Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength in the hand once the cast or splint is removed.
Goal: Proper realignment of hand bones.
Complications
- If the bones rotate during the healing process, then loss of function could result.
- Infection
- Ongoing stiffness or aching
- Osteoarthritis
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Lingering pain at implant site
Benefits
Bone is set and fixed in the correct anatomical position.
Outcomes
The temporary implants will be removed after sufficient bone healing has occurred. Due to the length of the immobilization period, there may be some initial joint stiffness in the hand. Physical therapy will be necessary to regain the range of motion and strength of the hand.
