Related Experiment Videos
Transcarpal carpometacarpal dislocations, excluding the thumb.
M Garcia-Elias1, A T Bishop, J H Dobyns
1Department of Orthopedics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Early diagnosis and treatment of distal carpal row fractures lead to excellent outcomes. Delayed diagnosis significantly increases complication risks, impacting hand function and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Traumatology
Background:
- Distal carpal row fractures can cause significant carpometacarpal joint instability.
- Timely diagnosis is crucial for optimal patient outcomes in hand injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the treatment outcomes of distal carpal row fractures.
- To compare results between early and delayed diagnoses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 13 patients with distal carpal row fractures over 9 years.
- Surgical intervention included open reduction, internal fixation (pins/screws), bone grafting, and immobilization.
- Follow-up assessed functional recovery and complications.
Main Results:
- Eight patients with early diagnosis had excellent functional recovery with no complications.
- Five patients with delayed diagnosis (1 week to 8 months) experienced complications including carpal tunnel syndrome and nonunions.
- Treatment outcomes in the delayed diagnosis group were varied: one good, three moderate, and one poor.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and prompt surgical management of distal carpal row fractures are essential for favorable functional recovery.
- Delayed diagnosis is associated with a higher incidence of complications and poorer outcomes in these injuries.