Coronal fracture of the hamate body

A case of a displaced coronal fracture of the hamate body with a 1-month delay in diagnosis is presented with a review of the literature regarding hamate-body fractures. Mechanism, diagnosis, and treatment options are discussed. This diagnosis should be suspected on initial review of plain radiographs, which must include an oblique view in any patient presenting with pain after blunt trauma to the hand. Open reduction with internal fixation is reserved for unstable, displaced fractures. Care should be taken to preserve the vascular supply to the displaced fragment, and a two-incision technique is recommended to minimize risk to the motor branch of the ulnar nerve.