[Treatment of subcapital fractures of the 4th and the 5th metacarpus. A clinical trial of the results after treatment without immobilization and reposition and a study of the treatment of these fractures at casualty departments in Denmark].

The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of treating subcapitular fractures of the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones with immediate mobilization and without splinting or reduction. Thirty-six such fractures were prospectively treated in this fashion and evaluated clinically. After four weeks only four patients (11.1%) had restricted movement of the metacarpal-phalangeal joint (less than 0-80 degrees of movement). The fracture was healed in 33 patients (91.7%) and 31 (86.1%) were fully satisfied. In order to investigate the types of treatment given in other accident and emergency departments in Denmark, a questionnaire was sent to all such departments. The results showed that most (90%) departments used plaster of Paris immobilization of the fracture. The average period of immobilization was 3.6 weeks (two to six). The indications given for reduction was an average volar angulation of 32 degrees (10-70). We conclude that treatment of subcapitular fractures of the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones without reduction and with a supporting bandage and mobilization to the pain-limit seems to secure a rapid restitution of function. These fractures are generally treated in Denmark with plaster immobilization and sometimes reduction, which appears to constitute overtreatment.