Hypothenar hammer syndrome with embolic occlusion of digital arteries

Although the hand is highly vascular and subjected to frequent and often repeated trauma, only 52 cases of true aneurysms have been described up to 1982 (Martin and Manktelow, 1982). Of these cases, 60% involved the ulnar artery. These injuries have a distinct tendency to occur in workers who routinely use hammers and screwdrivers, thus it can be considered an occupational disease (Middleton, 1933). A single violent traumatic event is rarely the cause, but rather repeated minor trauma over several months or years appears to be the more common history. A case with arteriographic demonstration of occlusion of the common and proper digital arteries secondary to emboli originating from a traumatic true aneurysm of the ulnar artery is presented.