Fasciculated intramedullary pinning of metacarpal fractures

Abstract

We reviewed 20 patients with 23 displaced extraarticular fractures of the distal end of the long metacarpals, treated by fasciculated pinning. At a mean follow-up of 5 years, all the patients were subjectively satisfied with the result. All the patients but one, who fractured four metacarpals, had a normal range of motion. The average grip strength was 43.4 kg for the operated side compared to 43.4 kg for the uninjured hand. Radiologically, the fractured fifth metacarpal had a shortening of 2.2 mm compared to a control group, whereas the volar angulation was 16.6 degrees (13.2 degrees for the control group). The technique of intramedullary fasciculated pinning is a reliable alternative when conservative treatment of fractures of the metacarpal neck has failed or is inappropriate. The procedure provides sufficient stability to allow early mobilization and a good functional result.