Functional treatment of metacarpal diaphyseal fractures by buddy taping: A prospective single-center study

Metacarpal diaphyseal fractures are classically treated using a non-removable glove for 4 to 6 weeks. Here, we report the results of treatment by immediate active protected mobilization (buddy taping for four weeks) of minimally displaced M2 to M5 fractures. Fifty-four fractures (15 transverse or short oblique and 39 spiral or long oblique) in 51 patients were included during a one-year period; the average age of patients was 31 years. Clinical and radiographic assessments were carried out at day 15 and then months 1, 2 and 6 post-fracture. Thirty-one cases were reviewed at day 15, 27 at 1 month, and 22 at 2 months. The initial volar tilt was 26° on average for the short oblique or transverse fractures, and 11.5° for the long oblique or spiral fractures. Six fractures (11%) experienced 16.6° of secondary displacement on average. The fracture was healed in 37% of cases at 1 month, and in 100% of cases at 2 months in the patients who were reviewed clinically. Reduction in the QuickDASH and VAS for pain was evidence of fast functional recovery. The range of motion was comparable to that of the contralateral side in 90% cases after 2 months. Grip and pinch strength was 33% less than the contralateral side at 2 months. Although secondary displacement occurs in some cases, the functional results of this simple and practical treatment method are good after 2 months, as there is little pain, stiffness, strength loss and no cases of nonunion.