Abstract

Clinical examination of metacarpal rotation: proceed with caution

Author(s): Miss Yasette Vander

Metacarpal fractures are very common and present frequently to both Emergency Departments and Fracture Clinics. Often junior doctors and specialist nurse practitioners assess these injuries and have been taught to examine for rotational deformity, due to the fact that this is an indication for surgery. This study shows how 15 healthy individuals from the orthopaedic department at a UK district general hospital can simulate a rotational deformity in the little or ring fingers of a ‘normal’ hand. The mean angulation of the little finger was 20.5 degrees and of the ring finger 15.9 degrees. This study emphasises that caution is required when assessing such injuries, so as not to lead to patient anxiety.