Clinical Outcomes of Ready-Made J-Shaped Nail Fixation for Unstable Metacarpal Fractures

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to report the clinical outcomes of ready-made J-shaped intramedullary nail fixation for unstable metacarpal fractures. Methods: A total of 25 unstable fractures from 24 patients were evaluated in this retrospective study, comprising 20 metacarpal neck and 5 metacarpal shaft fractures. The mean follow-up was 22 weeks. Functional outcomes were assessed based on the range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Radiographic outcomes were evaluated by four projections of the postoperative plain radiographs at the final follow-up, and then were rated as excellent if projections at the fracture site showed no correction loss or angular deformity greater than 10°. Surgery time and complications during the treatments were recorded for each case. Results: All 25 fractures obtained bony union. The mean range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint was 78° (range, 45°–90°). Radiographic outcomes were excellent in 24 (96%) of 25 fractures. Only one fracture had correction loss. The mean surgery time was 29 minutes (range, 14–61 minutes). Two cases had extensor tendon adhesion at the insertion site, which was easily released when the implant was removed. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that intramedullary fixation with a ready-made J-shaped nail is a reliable treatment option for unstable metacarpal fractures.