Displaced Fracture of the Neck: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A displaced fracture of the neck of the third metacarpal bone occurs when the bone located in the hand, specifically the long bone between the wrist and the knuckle, is broken and the broken ends are not aligned properly. This condition often results from a direct impact or trauma to the hand, such as a fall or a forceful blow.
Symptoms of a displaced fracture of the neck of the third metacarpal bone include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving or using the hand. In some cases, there may also be a visible deformity or a protrusion of the bone through the skin.
Treatment for this condition typically involves realigning the bone through a process called reduction, which may require the use of local anesthesia or sedation. Following reduction, the hand is immobilized with a splint or cast to allow for proper healing. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to secure the bone fragments with screws, wires, or plates. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are often recommended to restore strength and function to the hand.