Plate fixation in closed ipsilateral multiple metacarpal fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Care
• Hand Surgery

Background:

• Closed multiple metacarpal fractures are rare injuries.
• These fractures often present with substantial soft tissue swelling.
• Optimal outcomes depend on early, stable fixation and prompt rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for multiple closed metacarpal fractures.
• To assess functional recovery and complication rates associated with plate fixation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 19 patients with 43 metacarpal fractures.
• Treatment involved early ORIF using 2 mm plates.
• Functional outcomes and implant-related issues were documented.

Main Results:

• Eighteen out of 19 patients achieved a full range of motion.
• Only two metacarpals in two patients required implant removal due to extensor irritation.
• The treatment demonstrated a high success rate with minimal complications.

Conclusions:

• Plate fixation of multiple closed metacarpal fractures is a safe and reliable surgical technique.
• Early ORIF facilitates excellent functional recovery.
• This method is consistently reproducible for managing these complex fractures.