Thumb fracture is the second most common metacarpal fractures. Thumb fractures require diligent management and follow-up by orthopedic surgeons. This article provides an overview of current practices of thumb (metacarpal) fractures and their management. Metacarpal fractures are the most prevalent fractures of hand. About 30-40 % of all hand fractures comprise of various metacarpal fractures.
First metacarpal (thumb) fractures are second most metacarpal fractures. Fifth metacarpal fractures are found to be the most common metacarpal fractures. The prevalence of thumb fractures is more in children (0-16 years) and geriatric patients. As thumb provides about 40% of all hand function, not treating thumb fracture can give severe consequences to the patients. Classification of Thumb Fractures: As the thumb shows different anatomy and biomechanics, the thumb fractures too are different than…
