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Metacarpal Arc Motion: Comparison of Different Measurement Methods
Carina Büren1, Abdullah Al Maktary2, Joachim Windolf1
1Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
Journal of Hand and Microsurgery
|March 8, 2022
Summary
Measuring metacarpal arc motion in the fifth carpometacarpal (CMC) joint is crucial for assessing hand function. Optical, electrogoniometric, and sonographical methods provide precise and comparable measurements for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Assessing the range of motion (ROM) of carpometacarpal (CMC) joints presents clinical challenges.
- Accurate measurement of metacarpal arc motion is vital for evaluating hand function, particularly after injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To precisely measure the metacarpal arc motion during maximum palmar flexion of the fifth CMC joint.
- To compare the efficacy of optical, electrogoniometric, and sonographical measurement techniques.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three distinct methods: optical, electrogoniometry, and sonography.
- Measured the metacarpal arc in healthy individuals during maximum palmar flexion of the fifth CMC joint.
- Analyzed data for differences between left and right hands across all measurement techniques.
Main Results:
- Optical technique yielded a mean metacarpal arc motion of 24.9 degrees (SD: 6.2).
- Electrogoniometric technique measured 24.3 degrees (SD: 3.6).
- Sonographical technique recorded 25.1 degrees (SD: 3.5), with no significant differences observed between methods or hands.
Conclusions:
- Multiple techniques, including optical, electrogoniometry, and sonography, accurately measure metacarpal arc motion.
- These methods enable precise assessment of CMC joint function in patients with fractures.
- Measurements can guide post-traumatic evaluation and monitor rehabilitation progress effectively.
