Fracture of the hamate hook

Abstract

Twenty-one cases of hamulus fracture are presented. Diagnosis depends on clinical acuity. The most common symptom is pain in the palm that is aggravated by grasp. Weakness of grasp and dorsal wrist pain are also common. Ulnar nerve paresthesia or weakness and mild carpal tunnel syndrome are frequently present. Tenderness directly over the hamulus is always present, and grip strength typically is diminished. Tenosynovitis, tendon fraying, or tendon rupture may be demonstrated in 25% of the cases and is not related to the use of steroids. Lateral trispiral tomography is clearly superior to the other diagnostic methods. Excision produced generally excellent results, particularly in patients with an athletic injury or with no associated additional injury. A nonathletic injury or the presence of associated trauma adversely affected results. Immediate immobilization of acute fractures may result in fracture healing and obviate operative intervention. Open reduction and internal fixation is feasible but offers little advantage over excision.