S62.332

Clinical Causes: Falling onto an outstretched hand Direct blow or trauma to the hand during sports or accidents Car accidents or other high-impact injuries Crushing injuries from heavy objects Falls or slips that involve impact on the hand

Key Symptoms: Pain around the middle of the hand, especially over the third metacarpal Swelling and tenderness in the affected area Deformity or obvious misalignment of the finger Limited movement or difficulty gripping objects Bruising around the injury site Possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination to assess swelling, deformity, and range of motion. To confirm the nature and extent of the fracture, imaging tests are necessary, primarily X-rays of the hand. These images help determine whether the fracture is displaced, the degree of misalignment, and if there are any associated injuries. Occasionally, additional imaging such as CT scans may be used for detailed assessment.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment aims to realign the fractured bone and promote healing. Approaches include: - **Immobilization:** Using a splint or cast to keep the finger in proper position during healing. - **Closed reduction:** A procedure where the doctor manually realigns the bone without surgery, often followed by immobilization. - **Surgical intervention:** May be necessary for severe displacement, involving hardware such as pins, screws, or plates to stabilize the fracture. - **Pain management:** Use of medications to reduce pain and inflammation. - **Rehabilitation:** Once healing progresses, hand therapy exercises are essential to restore strength, flexibility, and function. Recovery times vary but typically range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the fracture and individual health factors.