Intramedullary nailing for metacarpal 2-5 fractures

Twenty-eight patients with 31 closed fractures (27 acute fractures and four with malalignment after conservative treatment) of the metacarpal bones 2-5 were treated with only one elastic stable intramedullary nail and followed prospectively. Treatment protocol was without immobilization or physiotherapy. These patients were reviewed at a mean follow-up time of 15 months for ultrasound results as well as functional outcome concerning complications, pain, range of motion, and grip strength measured with a Vernier-Dynamometer. Satisfaction of the patients was investigated by Clients Satisfaction Questionnaire. Radiographs before nail removal, ultrasound, and clinical examination always showed complete union of the fracture without deviation of axis. All patients gained full range of motion without any limits in daily activity and sports. There was no loss of grip strength compared with the other hand. Patients' satisfaction was very high, especially because of almost no postoperative pain and lack of immobilization. This method can be offered as an effective and safe alternative in the treatment of closed displaced fractures of the 2-5 metacarpus without significant complications.