S62.320

Clinical Causes: Direct trauma to the hand, such as being hit or struck by an object Falls onto an outstretched hand Crushing injuries from heavy objects Sports injuries involving impact or falls High-impact accidents or vehicular collisions

Key Symptoms: Immediate pain at the site of fracture Swelling and tenderness in the hand Deformity or abnormal positioning of the finger Bruising around the injury Difficulty moving the affected finger or gripping objects Loss of function or weakness in the hand Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

Diagnosis Path: To diagnose a displaced fracture of the second metacarpal, a healthcare professional will perform a physical examination and assess the hand’s appearance and movement. Imaging tests such as X-rays are essential to confirm the fracture, determine its location, severity, and whether it is displaced or has broken into multiple fragments. Sometimes, additional imaging like CT scans may be used for complex cases.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options depend on the severity and displacement of the fracture. - **Immobilization:** Most displaced fractures require immobilization with a splint or cast to keep the bone in place and allow healing. - **Reduction:** If the bones are significantly displaced, a procedure called reduction might be necessary to realign the bone fragments, which can be done manually (closed reduction) or surgically (open reduction). - **Surgical intervention:** Severe cases with multiple fragments or instability may require surgical fixation, using pins, screws, or plates to secure the bone in proper alignment. - **Rehabilitation:** After initial healing, hand therapy and exercises are often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function. - **Pain management:** Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are typically used to manage discomfort during recovery.