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Bilateral Avulsion Fractures of Extensor Carpi Ulnaris: A Case Report
Rajesh Kumar Vemparala1, Sathyanarayanan Narayanan1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Athani Hospitals, Palakkad, Kerala, India.
Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports
|January 31, 2024
Summary
This case report details rare bilateral avulsion fractures of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) insertion from the 5th metacarpal base. Surgical intervention for displaced fractures led to a full functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand and Wrist Surgery
- Traumatology
Background:
- Avulsion fractures of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) from its insertion are uncommon injuries.
- Literature primarily documents closed ruptures, with few reports on avulsion fractures at the 5th metacarpal base.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male sustained bilateral wrist pain after a fall.
- Radiological evaluation revealed a volar Barton fracture with an ipsilateral undisplaced avulsed 5th metacarpal base fracture and a contralateral displaced avulsed 5th metacarpal base fracture.
Findings:
- The patient underwent internal fixation for the volar Barton fracture and mini open fixation with a wire for the left 5th metacarpal base fracture.
- Following hardware removal at 6 weeks and subsequent rehabilitation, the patient achieved full wrist and hand function at 3 months.
Implications:
- Bilateral ECU avulsion fractures represent a rare traumatic event.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate surgical management, particularly for displaced fractures, are crucial for optimal functional recovery.
- This case highlights successful surgical outcomes for this rare injury pattern.
