UMEM Educational Pearls

Title: Metacarpal Neck Fractures

Keywords: Metacarpal, Fracture, Boxer's Fracture (PubMed Search)

Posted: 2/2/2008 by Michael Bond, MD (Updated: 4/20/2024)
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Metacarpal Neck Fractures (i.e.: Boxer’s Fracture if 5^th Metacarpal)

Depending on the MCP joint involved a certain amount of angulation is permissible before it adversely affects normal function.

2^nd and 3^rd Metacarpal fractures < 10۫ angulation ideally these should be perfectly aligned.
4^th Metacarpal fracture <20۫ angulation allowed
5^th Metacarpal fracture <30۫ angulation.
- Studies have shown that even 30۫ angulation will decrease normal function by 20%.
- Normal excursion of the 5^th MCP is 15۫ to 25۫.
No amount of rotation deformity should be allowed.