HOW TO AVOID HAND STIFFNESS IN METACARPAL FRACTURES?

Objective : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of hand stiffness and range of motion in patients with metacarpal fractures treated with internal fixation by low profile osteo-synthesis (Mini-plates). Materials and methods : A prospective study including thirty-six patients with metacarpal fracture was carried out in the period between June 2018 and June 2019 at Sohag University Hospital. All these 36 patients underwent internal fixation of metacarpal fracture by mini-plates. Evaluation of pain measured on a visual analog scale (VAS), active range of motion (ROM); and grip strength and postoperative follow up is up to one year. Results : Group of patients including thirty-six patients with metacarpal bone fractures underwent internal fixation by mini plate, the mode of trauma was Motor car accident in 26 cases (72.2%) and Assault in six cases (16.7%) hitting hard objects was in 4 cases (11.1%). No complications were reported in our cases except one case (2.8%) with wound dehiscence which improved with daily dressing and good antibiotics. Conclusion : Mini-plate and screws fixation of metacarpal fractures produces anatomical reduction of fractures with stabilization that is rigid enough to allow early mobilization, thereby preventing stiffness and hence good functional results.