Conservative treatment for closed fifth small finger metacarpal neck fractures

Description: Subcapital fractures of the fifth metacarpal bone, meaning fractures just below the knuckle of the little finger, account for approximately 20% of all hand fractures. Currently, there is no consensus concerning the optimal management of these fractures. Traditionally, treatment consists of closed reduction and external splinting in a neutral position using plaster of Paris (POP), involving the metacarpal joint, the proximal interphalangeal joint and the carpo – metacarpal joint. An alternative treatment strategy is functional treatment using taping or bracing that does not restrict movement.
RW Poolman Cochrane Rev Abstract. 2007