What are the common causes of a broken pinky finger. How can you recognize the symptoms of a fractured little finger. What treatment options are available for a broken pinky. How long does recovery typically take for a pinky finger fracture.

Understanding Pinky Finger Fractures: Anatomy and Vulnerability

The pinky finger, also known as the fifth digit or little finger, plays a crucial role in hand function despite its small size. Its position on the outer edge of the hand makes it particularly susceptible to injury. But what exactly makes the pinky finger vulnerable to fractures?

The anatomy of the pinky finger consists of three phalanges (bones): the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. These small bones are connected by joints and supported by ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The pinky’s location and relatively delicate structure contribute to its vulnerability.

• Exposed position on the outer edge of the hand
• Smaller size compared to other fingers
• Less muscular protection
• Frequent involvement in gripping and supporting objects

Understanding the pinky finger’s anatomy helps explain why fractures in this digit are relatively common. The combination of its exposed position and delicate structure makes it prone to injury during various activities, from sports to everyday tasks.

Common Causes and Mechanisms of Pinky Finger Fractures

Pinky finger fractures can occur in numerous ways, often resulting from sudden impact, twisting motions, or excessive force applied to the digit. What are some of the most frequent causes of broken pinky fingers?

• Sports injuries (e.g., ball sports, martial arts)
• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Crush injuries (e.g., car doors, heavy objects)
• Workplace accidents
• Direct blows to the finger

The mechanism of injury often determines the type and severity of the fracture. For instance, a direct blow may result in a transverse fracture, while a twisting motion might cause a spiral fracture. Understanding the cause of the injury can help healthcare professionals determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Types of Pinky Finger Fractures

Pinky finger fractures can be classified into several types based on their location and characteristics. What are the main types of fractures that can affect the little finger?

1. Transverse fractures: Clean breaks across the bone
2. Oblique fractures: Angled breaks through the bone
3. Spiral fractures: Fractures that wind around the bone
4. Comminuted fractures: Breaks resulting in multiple bone fragments
5. Intra-articular fractures: Fractures extending into the joint surface

Each type of fracture presents unique challenges in terms of treatment and healing. For example, comminuted fractures may require more complex interventions, while simple transverse fractures might heal well with conservative management.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Pinky Finger

Identifying a broken pinky finger promptly is crucial for proper treatment and optimal recovery. How can you recognize the signs and symptoms of a fractured little finger?

• Immediate pain following injury
• Swelling and bruising around the affected area
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger
• Difficulty moving the finger or gripping objects
• Tenderness to touch
• Numbness or tingling sensation
• In severe cases, an open wound or protruding bone

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the fracture. Some individuals might experience intense pain and obvious deformity, while others may have more subtle signs. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek medical evaluation to rule out or confirm a fracture.

Differentiating Between a Broken and Sprained Pinky

Distinguishing between a fracture and a sprain can be challenging without medical imaging. However, there are some general differences to consider:

• Fractures typically cause more intense and localized pain
• Sprains may allow for some movement, while fractures often severely limit motion
• Visible deformity is more common in fractures
• Bruising tends to be more extensive in fractures

Despite these general guidelines, it’s crucial to seek professional medical assessment for a definitive diagnosis. Only through proper examination and imaging can healthcare providers accurately determine the nature and extent of the injury.

Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation of Pinky Finger Fractures

When a pinky finger fracture is suspected, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan. What steps are involved in diagnosing a broken pinky finger?

1. Physical examination: The doctor will assess the finger’s appearance, range of motion, and tenderness.
2. Medical history: Information about the injury mechanism and past medical conditions is gathered.
3. Imaging studies: X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool for confirming fractures.
4. Additional tests: In some cases, CT scans or MRI may be ordered for more detailed imaging.

The diagnostic process not only confirms the presence of a fracture but also provides crucial information about its type, location, and severity. This information guides treatment decisions and helps predict the expected recovery timeline.

The Role of X-rays in Pinky Finger Fracture Diagnosis

X-rays play a pivotal role in diagnosing pinky finger fractures. How do X-rays assist in the evaluation of a potentially broken little finger?

• Confirm the presence of a fracture
• Determine the exact location of the break
• Assess the alignment of bone fragments
• Identify any joint involvement
• Guide treatment decisions

Multiple views are typically taken to provide a comprehensive assessment of the injury. In some cases, comparison X-rays of the uninjured hand may be obtained to help evaluate subtle fractures or normal anatomical variations.

Treatment Options for Pinky Finger Fractures

The treatment of a broken pinky finger depends on various factors, including the type and severity of the fracture, the patient’s age and overall health, and their functional requirements. What are the main treatment options available for pinky finger fractures?

1. Conservative management (non-surgical treatment)
   • Immobilization with splints or casts
   • Buddy taping to adjacent finger
   • Pain management
   • Gradual mobilization and rehabilitation
2. Surgical intervention
   • Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
   • External fixation
   • Percutaneous pinning

The choice between conservative and surgical treatment depends on several factors. Stable, non-displaced fractures often respond well to conservative management, while more complex or unstable fractures may require surgical intervention to ensure proper healing and alignment.

Conservative Management: Splinting and Immobilization

For many pinky finger fractures, conservative treatment is the first line of approach. How does splinting and immobilization help in the healing process?

• Protects the fracture site from further injury
• Maintains proper alignment of bone fragments
• Reduces pain by limiting movement
• Promotes the natural healing process

The duration of immobilization varies depending on the fracture’s severity and location. Typically, splinting or casting is maintained for 3-6 weeks, followed by a period of protected mobilization and rehabilitation.

Surgical Interventions for Complex Pinky Fractures

In cases where conservative management is insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. What surgical techniques are commonly used for treating complex pinky finger fractures?

1. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
   • Involves making an incision to directly access the fracture site
   • Bone fragments are realigned and secured with pins, screws, or plates
2. Percutaneous pinning
   • Minimally invasive technique using small incisions
   • Pins are inserted through the skin to hold bone fragments in place
3. External fixation
   • Used for severe fractures or open injuries
   • Involves placing pins or wires into the bone and connecting them to an external frame

The choice of surgical technique depends on the specific characteristics of the fracture, the surgeon’s expertise, and the patient’s individual needs. Post-operative care typically involves a period of immobilization followed by rehabilitation.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Pinky Finger Fracture

The recovery process following a pinky finger fracture is crucial for regaining full function and preventing long-term complications. What does the typical recovery timeline look like for a broken little finger?

1. Immediate post-injury phase (0-2 weeks)
   • Pain management and swelling reduction
   • Initial immobilization
2. Early healing phase (2-6 weeks)
   • Continued immobilization
   • Gradual introduction of gentle range of motion exercises
3. Mid-recovery phase (6-12 weeks)
   • Progressive increase in mobility and strength exercises
   • Return to light activities
4. Late recovery phase (3-6 months)
   • Continued strengthening and functional training
   • Gradual return to full activities

It’s important to note that recovery timelines can vary significantly depending on the severity of the fracture, the treatment approach, and individual factors such as age and overall health.

Rehabilitation Exercises for Pinky Finger Fractures

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring function and strength after a pinky finger fracture. What types of exercises are commonly prescribed during the recovery process?

• Passive range of motion exercises
• Active range of motion exercises
• Strengthening exercises (e.g., finger flexion and extension)
• Grip and pinch strength training
• Fine motor skill activities
• Desensitization techniques for scar tissue

The specific rehabilitation program is tailored to the individual’s needs and the characteristics of their injury. It’s crucial to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals to avoid overexertion or re-injury during the recovery process.

Potential Complications and Long-Term Outcomes of Pinky Finger Fractures

While many pinky finger fractures heal without issues, complications can occur. What are some potential complications associated with broken little fingers?

• Malunion (improper healing alignment)
• Nonunion (failure of the bone to heal)
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Chronic pain or sensitivity
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Deformity
• Nerve or blood vessel damage

The risk of complications can be minimized through proper initial treatment, adherence to recovery guidelines, and appropriate rehabilitation. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers allows for early detection and management of any potential issues.

Long-Term Functional Implications of Pinky Finger Fractures

The long-term outcomes of pinky finger fractures can vary widely. What factors influence the functional prognosis following a broken little finger?

1. Severity and type of the initial fracture
2. Timeliness and appropriateness of treatment
3. Adherence to rehabilitation protocols
4. Individual factors (age, overall health, occupation)
5. Presence or absence of complications

While many individuals regain full function following a pinky finger fracture, some may experience lasting effects such as mild stiffness or reduced grip strength. In most cases, these residual issues do not significantly impact daily activities or quality of life.

Prevention Strategies and Risk Reduction for Pinky Finger Fractures

While not all pinky finger fractures can be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of injury. What measures can individuals take to minimize the likelihood of experiencing a broken little finger?

• Use proper protective equipment during sports and high-risk activities
• Practice proper technique and form in sports and occupational tasks
• Maintain good bone health through nutrition and exercise
• Be mindful of fall risks, especially for older adults
• Use caution when handling heavy objects or operating machinery
• Address underlying health conditions that may increase fracture risk

While these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of pinky finger fractures, it’s important to remember that accidents can still occur. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of injuries remain crucial for optimal outcomes.

Occupational Considerations and Pinky Finger Fracture Prevention

Certain occupations may pose a higher risk of pinky finger fractures. How can individuals in high-risk professions protect their little fingers?

1. Use ergonomic tools and equipment designed to reduce hand strain
2. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves or finger guards
3. Participate in workplace safety training programs
4. Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue-related accidents
5. Report potential hazards to supervisors or safety officers

Employers also play a crucial role in preventing workplace-related pinky finger fractures by implementing safety protocols, providing appropriate equipment, and fostering a culture of safety awareness.

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X-ray image hand Knochenbruch

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Schmerzhafter Finger der Hintergrundanimation

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Mädchen gebrochener Arm.

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Finger Fractures – OrthoInfo – AAOS

Although the bones in the fingers are small, a broken (fractured) finger is not a minor injury.

The bones in a normal finger line up precisely. They let you perform many specialized functions, such as grasping a pen, playing an instrument, or typing on a computer. When you fracture a finger bone, it can cause dysfunction affecting your entire hand. Without appropriate treatment, your broken finger may end up misaligned, stiff, or painful.

Your hand consists of 27 bones:

• Eight bones in your wrist (carpals)
• Five bones in the palm of your hand (metacarpals)
• 14 bones in your fingers (phalanges)

These bones are connected by joints:

• The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint is where a digit’s metacarpal connects to the wrist The thumb CMC joint allows for quite a bit of motion, enabling you to put your thumb in a variety of positions for grasping. There is some motion in the CMC joints of the little and ring fingers and very little motion in the CMC joints of the middle and index fingers.
• The metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint is where your finger connects to the matacarpal
• The interphalangeal (IP) joints are the joints within your fingers. Combined, the MCP and IP joints allow you to straighten your fingers and make a fist.

Illustration showing the anatomy of the hand.

Generally, a fractured finger occurs as the result of an injury to the hand. You can fracture a finger when:

• You slam your fingers in a door.
• You put out your hand to break a fall.
• Your finger jams while trying to catch a ball.
• You have an accident while working with a power saw, drill, or other tools.
• Your hand strikes a hard object. Fractures of the metacarpal bone that attaches your little finger to your hand, which account for about one-third of all hand fractures in adults, are typically caused by a punching force (these are known as “boxer’s fractures”).

(Left) Illustration and (Right) X-ray of a “boxer’s fracture” in the fifth metacarpal. This common hand fracture can cause the knuckle on the affected finger to appear sunken in or angulated.

Right: Reproduced from Johnson TR, Steinbach LS (eds): Essentials of Musculoskeletal Imaging. Rosemont, IL American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2004, p. 347.

• Swelling of the fracture site
• Tenderness at the fracture site
• Bruising at the fracture site
• Inability to move the injured finger completely
• Deformity of the injured finger

If you think you fractured your finger, immediately tell your doctor exactly what happened and when it happened. Your doctor must determine not only which bone(s) you fractured, but also how the bone(s) broke.

Bones can break in several ways:

• Straight across the bone
• In a spiral pattern
• Into several pieces
• Shattered completely

Illustration showing different types of finger fractures. (Left) With intraarticular fractures, the fracture extends into the joint. (Right) Avulsion fractures occur when a ligament or tendon and a small piece of the bone it is attached to pull away from the main bone.

Your doctor may want to see how your fingers line up when you extend your hand or make a fist. Does any finger overlap its neighbor? Does the injured finger angle in the wrong direction? Does the injured finger look too short?

Your doctor will obtain X-rays and sometimes advanced imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, to better understand the fracture and how it should be treated.

Your doctor will also look for injuries to other nearby structures. It is not uncommon for a finger that is fractured to also have injuries to tendons, nerves, and/or ligaments. These injuries may need to be treated along with the broken bone(s) to ensure a good outcome. 

Nonsurgical Treatment

For fractures that are displaced, or not lined up correctly:

• Your doctor will likely put your broken bone back into place; often, this can be done without surgery.
• You may get a splint or cast to hold your finger straight and protect it from further injury while it heals. Sometimes your doctor may splint the fingers next to the fractured one to provide additional support. Your doctor will tell you how long to wear the splint. Usually a splint on a fractured finger is worn for about 3 weeks.
• You may need more X-rays over this time so that your doctor can monitor the progress of your finger as it heals.
• After the fracture heals, it will likely be stiff from not moving for several weeks. Therapy may be necessary to help get motion back in the finger.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, you may need surgery to put the bones into alignment and keep them there while they heal.

• Small devices, such as pins, screws, plates, or wires, will be used to hold your fractured bones together. Sometimes, these devices can stay in for life, and sometimes they need to be removed after the fracture heals.
• Depending on the strength of the repair, you may be able to move the finger soon after surgery to avoid stiffness.

(Left) X-ray shows fractures in the phalanges of two fingers. (Right) In this X-ray, the fractures have been repaired with screws.

Reproduced from Kozin SH, Thoder JJ, Lieberman G: Operative Treatment of Metacarpal and Phalangeal Shaft Fractures. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2000; 8:111-121.

Fractures that involve the CMC, MCP, or IP joints are particularly worriesome and very often require surgery. When these fractures are not treated promptly and adequately, they can lead to substantial finger dysfunction and long-term consequences, such as arthritis.

Finger fractures requiring surgery often need therapy after the procedure to help prevent or correct stiffness.

You may begin using your hand again as soon as your doctor determines it is OK to move your finger. Doing simple rehabilitation exercises each day will help reduce the finger’s stiffness and swelling. You may be required to see a hand therapist to assist you in these exercises.

Outcomes following the treatment of finger fractures vary:

• Some simple fractures are easily treated, and treatment results in excellent function.
• Some more catastrophic injuries (e.g., a gunshot to the finger) — in which multiple structures (such as tendons, nerves, and/or ligaments) are involved — result in stiff and poorly functioning fingers even with the best treatments. In some cases, a second or third surgery may be needed to remove hardware once the bone is healed or to free up tendons that have scarred to the fracture site.

 If you suspect you have a finger fracture, seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner a fracture is addressed by a doctor, the better the outcome will likely be.

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symptoms, treatment, prevention at home

The Internet is full of jokes about the insidious legs of the sofa and nightstands, which dream of meeting the little toe. Many remember the pain that happens after their sharp contact. But few then rush to the doctor. A broken toe is often seen as comical. As a result, a person looks at whether the finger is moving or not, it hurts – it doesn’t hurt, and lives on calmly. Even if the finger swells the next day, many rely on “it will pass by itself.” In some cases, this is what happens. But sometimes the severity of the situation can exceed the insignificance of external symptoms, especially since not only the little finger can be broken on the leg.

– The big toe or little toe is most commonly affected by toe fractures, says traumatologist Erwin Kuzmin . “People hit furniture – these are common cases when, for example, a young mother ran after a child and got injured. Either the person was in a hurry to the TV, the children frolicked next to the pieces of furniture. In these cases, the little fingers are more often injured. In my practice, there was a treatment with a broken toe as a result of a Rottweiler jumping on the mistress – the dog made a maneuver out of the best of feelings, as a result, the woman had a fracture of her little finger. Big toes are injured mainly when playing football, participating in outdoor sports, accidentally or intentionally kicking a hard surface. You can also get a broken toe if a heavy angular object falls from above. As an example, I can cite a schoolboy whose briefcase with textbooks fell on his leg. Severe injuries, for example, resulting from an accident, are not taken into account, since there we are talking, most often, about a combined injury and saving the patient’s life, and not a broken toe.

Symptoms of a broken toe

Three main symptoms:

• pain;
• edema;
• deformation.

Pain. The first and main symptom of a broken toe is pain. The pain syndrome also occurs with bruises and dislocations, therefore, first of all, it is worth paying attention to its intensity. Constant throbbing pain in the finger, especially at night, is a sure reason to go to the emergency room.

Edema. When a toe is broken, swelling appears along with pain, in other words, swelling. As a result of injury, the integrity of body tissues, vascular permeability and water-salt balance are violated, as a result, an excess of fluid accumulates in the intercellular space, which we observe visually. Small blood vessels are also damaged, and a hematoma joins the edema, i.e. bruise. When you try to move your finger, swelling and hematoma can increase, as well as spread to neighboring tissues.

Deformation . A clear sign of a broken toe is its curvature. Most often, in such a situation, it is impossible to move them, and an attempt to touch causes a sharp pain. However, it should be borne in mind that with significant edema, the deformation may not be visible to the eye, so it is better to consult a doctor to make a diagnosis.

Treatment of a fractured toe

Fractures are different – open and closed, with and without displacement of fragments, oblique, transverse, comminuted, and so on. Treatment of a fracture depends on its type. If this is a simple fracture without displacement, then a universal remedy is the imposition of a splint for short-term immobilization of the limb. After two weeks, it will be possible to step on the leg, after three – to remove the splint.

Doctors used to recommend tight bandaging for several weeks, especially for injuries to the middle and ring fingers. It was necessary to apply a tourniquet, connecting the injured finger with the neighboring uninjured one, and tightly tie them. Bandage every 3-4 days. But, the main rule in the treatment of a broken toe is that patients should not lean on the injured leg.

– Most patients consider a broken toe a trifle and neglect the orthopedic regimen, comments Erwin Kuzmin. – As a result, the consolidation of bone fragments is delayed, the fracture becomes ununited. Treatment is delayed. Therefore, it is much more practical to temporarily walk with a splint and enjoy life. After all, other types of toe fractures require more serious intervention – surgery.

Diagnosis

The main method for diagnosing a broken toe is radiography. It will allow you to immediately differentiate the diagnosis: bruise or fracture, as well as determine the type of fracture.

The main thing in the healing process is to observe the orthopedic regimen. Photo: Pixabay

Modern Treatments

Modern medicine has advanced particularly in the treatment of complex fractures. First of all, this concerns the treatment of comminuted fractures of the toes, where fixation of bone fragments is necessary using special structures: knitting needles or plates.

Today, there are many options for plates for periosteal osteosynthesis, with which you can fix any bone. Plates vary in size, shape, functionality. If we are talking about a fracture of the toe, then it is installed for 3-4 weeks and guarantees 100% fixation. Subsequently, it can be both removed and, if indicated, left. However, there is always the risk of a suppurative process.

Kirschner wires mainly fix small bones and joints. Fixation can be carried out both externally, when the end of the pin rises above the surface, and internally, when the entire structure is under the skin. Immobilization lasts, as a rule, for 4 to 6 weeks after the operation. The operation is minimally invasive, less traumatic than the installation of plates. Subsequently, you can remove the spokes at any emergency room.

Prevention of a broken toe at home

Broken toes are usually the result of hitting something hard and immovable, or from dropping a heavy, angular object on the foot. Less often – from bending the fingers inward. Therefore, pay attention when buying furniture to its protruding parts. Do not arrange furniture so that it is in your path or aisle. It is advisable to walk around the house in slippers that can soften the blow. Be careful when lifting heavy objects. Also pay attention to the selection of shoes: wearing shoes that are narrow or smaller than necessary in size is fraught with injuries on the street, especially on ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you see a doctor if you have a broken toe when it heals on its own?

Indeed, the bone can heal itself if it is a simple fracture. Only in the absence of treatment, an incorrectly fused toe can partially lose its mobility and remain deformed. This will make wearing shoes uncomfortable, can cause pain, and in the future threatens with arthritis.

In other cases, if the fracture is complicated, such connivance is fraught with inflammation and amputation.

Do you need a cast for broken toes?

If only the toes are fractured, a splint is applied – a light circular plaster bandage. It does not cover the whole leg, it can be removed at any time for examination or hygiene procedures with the permission of a doctor.

Need a splint after finger surgery?

If a broken toe required surgery, a splint is often placed after surgery for up to two weeks. During this period, it is recommended to walk as little as possible and rest more, while in bed, keep your leg in an elevated position.

Fractures of the bones of the forearm

Fractures of the bones of the forearm account for a quarter of the fractures of all bones of the skeleton. Fractures of the upper forearm are less common in children.
The forearm consists of the radius and ulna. The radial is located on the side of the thumb, the ulna is located on the side of the little finger. The radius, connecting with the bones of the wrist, forms the wrist joint.
The ulna joins with the humerus and radius to form the elbow joint. The upper and lower parts of the forearm are connected by articulations, the middle part by the interosseous membrane.
For articulation with the humerus in the upper part of the ulna there is a notch, which is called the lunate. Anterior to the notch is the coronoid process of the ulna, behind is the olecranon. To the side of the coronoid process there is a notch for articulation with the head of the radius.

The following types of fractures of the bones of the forearm are distinguished:
• Radius in a typical location;
• middle part, or diaphysis of both bones of the forearm;
• ulna shaft;
• shaft of the radius;
• heads or necks of the radius;
• Montage;
• Galeazzi;
• olecranon;
• coronoid process.

Symptoms
Symptoms of a fracture of the bones of the forearm depending on location:
• Radius in a typical location is the most common injury and is divided into flexion and extension fractures. When an extensor fracture occurs, the distal (located farther from the center of the human body) fragment is displaced to the radial side and to the rear, with a turn outward, while the proximal (located closer to the center of the human body) is displaced to the palmar and ulnar side. With a flexion fracture, the central fragment is displaced towards the rear and turns outward, while the peripheral fragment is displaced towards the palm, turning inwards. Objectively, the forearm is deformed, edematous, cyanotic. Active and passive movements are impossible due to pain. There may be pathological mobility. If the nerves are damaged, there is a violation of sensitivity and restriction of movements of the IV finger;
• the middle part, or diaphysis of both bones of the forearm is characterized by convergence and displacement of fragments of the ulna and radius due to contraction of the bone membrane. Active and passive movements are impossible due to pain, and pathological movements in the forearm may be present.
• the diaphysis of the ulna is characterized by deformity, edema. Active movements are limited due to pain. With compression of the forearm from the sides or axial load, pain also occurs;
• radial shaft is characterized by deformity, edema, mobility of fragments. On palpation (a method of examining a patient based on touch) of the injury site and axial load, a sharp pain occurs;
• head or neck of the radius is characterized by pain and swelling just below the elbow joint. Active flexion movements, as well as outward rotational movements, are sharply limited due to pain;
• Monteggia – a combined injury that includes a fracture of the ulna, combined with a dislocation of the head of the radius and with the possible accession of damage to the ulnar nerve. According to the displacement of the fragments, flexion and extensor fractures of Montage are distinguished. With flexion, the fragments of the radius are displaced backward, and the head forward, forming an anteriorly open angle. With extensor, the fragments are displaced forward, and the head of the radius back and outward, forming an angle open posteriorly. The injured forearm is shortened, a protrusion is determined from the side of the radius, and a retraction is determined from the side of the ulna. Active movements are impossible due to pain, when passive movements are performed, springy resistance arises;
• Galeazzi – combined damage, characterized by a fracture of the radius in the lower third with the addition of a dislocation of the head of the ulna. Fragments of the radius are displaced forward, while the head of the radius goes towards the palm or its back. On examination, there is a protrusion on the palm and retraction from the back, or vice versa. When pressing on the head of the bone, it returns to the physiological position, but when the pressure stops, it dislocates again;
• olecranon is characterized by swelling, cyanosis and deformity. Active movements are impossible, passive ones are extremely difficult. In case of displacement of the fragments, it may be accompanied by a dysfunction of the conduction nerve and this is fraught with sensations of numbness up to a complete lack of sensitivity and disruption of the IV finger;
• of the coronoid process is characterized by edema and extensive hematoma in the region of the cubital fossa. Active flexion movements are difficult. On palpation in the region of the cubital fossa, painful sensations occur.

Causes

Causes of fracture of the bones of the forearm depending on location:
• the radius in a typical place occurs due to a fall on a straight arm with emphasis on the palm. A little less often, this kind of fracture occurs when falling on the back of the hand. Such fractures are more common among people suffering from bone diseases that reduce their density. In most cases, the bone breaks a couple of centimeters above the wrist joint;
• the middle part , or the diaphysis of both bones of the forearm, a fairly common injury. Occurs as a result of a fall on the arm or a strong blow to the forearm;
• ulna shaft occurs as a result of a blow to the forearm;
• shaft of the radius occurs as a result of a blow to the forearm;
• head or neck of the radius occurs as a result of a fall on a straight arm;
• Monteggia occurs as a result of repelling a blow with a bent and raised forearm, or falling on a straight arm;
• Galeazzi occurs when struck on the forearm or when falling on a straight arm;
• olecranon occurs as a result of a sharp contraction of the extensor forearm muscle, a fall or a blow to the elbow;
• of the coronoid process occurs as a result of a fall on a bent elbow.

Treatment

First aid for fractures of the bones of the forearm consists in anesthesia, fixation of the damaged limb. For several hours, the imposition of cold is recommended to prevent the development of edema. The patient is taken to the doctor.

In case of a fracture of the olecranon and coronoid process without displacement, a plaster cast is applied for a period of 3-4 weeks. When the fragments are displaced by more than 5 mm in case of a fracture of the olecranon, surgery is performed by osteosynthesis (connection of bone fragments using fixing structures that ensure the immobility of bone fragments). When a fragment is wedged into the elbow joint with a fracture of the coronoid process, this fragment is promptly removed.

In case of an undisplaced fracture of the head and neck of the radius , a splint is applied to the bent elbow joint with fixation of the wrist and elbow joint and up to the middle of the shoulder for a period of three weeks. When displaced, osteosynthesis is indicated.

In case of diaphyseal fracture of the ulna and radius , not complicated by displacement, the forearm is fixed in a folded position with the capture of the wrist and elbow joints for a period of five weeks. In case of a fracture with a displacement, reposition is performed (restoring the correct position of the displaced bone fragments) and a plaster cast is applied for up to six weeks.

In case of diaphyseal fracture of both bones of the forearm without displacement, a splint is applied to the arm bent at the elbow, capturing the wrist and elbow joint for up to eight weeks. When the fragments are displaced, reposition or osteosynthesis is carried out, depending on the severity of the damage. After surgery, a plaster bandage is applied for up to three months.

Surgical treatment in our clinic:
During this operation, the displacement of fragments is eliminated and the bone is fastened with a metal structure, the choice of which is determined by the nature of the fracture.
Operational access: 1. Thomson access; 2. Henry’s access; 3. Access to the ulna.
Position of the patient on the back. Anesthesia: conduction anesthesia or endotracheal anesthesia. The operation is performed as soon as possible using modern techniques and implants. Implants made in Switzerland and Germany. Implant material: titanium or medical steel.

Before surgery:

After surgery:

Before surgery:

After surgery:

Before surgery:

After surgery:

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After surgery:

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After surgery, patients can start restoring limb function the next day.