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Acute Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome With Digital Ischemia in a Professional Rakugo Performer
Daiki Saito1, Norie Kodera1, Makoto Hirao1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan.
Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online
|June 17, 2025
Summary
A rare case of hypothenar hammer syndrome, causing acute hand ischemia, was seen in a professional performer. This condition, linked to occupational trauma and alcohol, required surgical repair.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Occupational Medicine
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare condition affecting the ulnar artery.
- It is often associated with repetitive trauma to the hypothenar eminence.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old professional Rakugo performer presented with acute digital ischemia in the right hand.
- The patient had a history of blunt hand trauma years prior and recent excessive alcohol intake.
Findings:
- Imaging revealed a thrombosed ulnar artery pseudoaneurysm.
- Surgical resection and vein graft reconstruction of the ulnar artery were performed.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the potential for delayed, acute presentation of HHS.
- Recognizing occupational microtrauma and systemic triggers is crucial for diagnosing vascular hand conditions.
