Stress fracture of the hook of the hamate: a case report

Hook of the hamate fractures are uncommon. This fracture is usually seen in sports involving a club or a racquet (i.e., baseball or golf) and is caused by blunt trauma. Stress fractures of the hamate are exceedingly rare. Because of its subcutaneous position and associated soft tissue structures, hook of the hamate fractures can be difficult to diagnosis. When treated early, conservative (non-operative) options can be used to successfully treat the fracture. When the diagnosis is delayed, nonunion of the fracture is common and is usually treated with surgery. This case represents a hook of the hamate stress fracture that healed with casting in spite of being seen two months from the onset of symptoms. Hamate fractures are reviewed, including the anatomy and treatment options for hook of the hamate fractures.