Treatment for Metacarpal Fracture - Boxer's-Brawler's Fracture

Commonly known as a Boxer's (or Brawler's) Fracture, a broken metacarpal bone refers to the knucklebones within the hand. The hand contains five metacarpal bones that connect each of the fingers to the wrist. Typically, Metacarpal fractures affect the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones, (AKA the ring finger and little finger). Those two metacarpal bones are the most likely to be broken when the hand/fist makes impact with an object.

Signs that you have metacarpal fracture include: the sensation of a pop or snap within the finger bone, swelling, tenderness, and discoloration/bruising at the site of the injury. Another symptom of a metacarpal break is a misalignment of the finger that may have suffered the fracture.

In diagnosing and treating a metacarpal fracture, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Reisch will likely conduct both a physical examination, as well as an X-Ray or MRI in order to assess the extent of the damage to the fractured knucklebone. To treat a fractured metacarpal bone, Dr. Reisch will likely immobilize the affected knucklebone, and potentially brace or cast the hand. Though rare, it is possible that surgery may be required depending upon the severity of the metacarpal fracture.