Do you need a cast for a metacarpal fracture?
Treatment of a metacarpal fracture can usually be accomplished with the use of a cast. A cast is usually worn for three to six weeks, followed by gentle motion exercises. 2 Occasionally, if stiffness becomes a problem after cast treatment, a hand therapist will be recommended to work with you.
How long does it take for metacarpal fractures to heal?
Most metacarpal fractures heal enough to be out of a cast in three to four weeks. If this is a repeat fracture it, may take more time to heal and may need to be casted longer.
How is a first metacarpal fracture treated?
Closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner-wire fixation is generally the appropriate treatment for a Bennett fracture. Rolando fractures can be treated with either open reduction and internal fixation or external fixation, depending on the size of the fracture fragments.
What type of splint is used for a metacarpal fracture?
Immobilization and Splinting A gutter splint or cast should be used to immobilize a metacarpal fracture. This is often definitive management for fractures that meet acceptable radiographic parameters. A gutter splint may be modified based on the location of the injured finger.
Can bones mend themselves if they break?
Bones are very flexible and can withstand a lot of physical force. However, if the force is too great, bones can break. A broken bone or fracture can repair itself, provided that the conditions are right for the break to heal completely.
What causes metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in dogs?
Metacarpal (MC) and metatarsal (MT) bone fractures are common injuries seen in the dog, typically resulting from automobile trauma, being stepped upon or having the paw trapped under a rigid object. Photo 1: Minimally displaced metaÂtarsal fractures in an 8-month-old American Bulldog.
What to do for a broken metacarpal bone in a dog?
Treatment of Metatarsal and Metacarpal Fractures in Dogs. Emergency care for concurrent problems caused by the trauma is the most important part of treatment. After stabilization, additional treatment may include: Cast or splint. Certain fractures of the metatarsal and metacarpal bones can be managed successfully with a cast or splint.
Where are the metatarsus and metacarpus located in a dog?
Fracture of the Metatarsus and Metacarpus in Dogs. Overview of Fractured Metatarsus and Metacarpus in Dogs. The metatarsal bones are the long bones in the hind foot (the arch of the human foot) that connect the toes to the bones of the ankle (tarsus).
How are fractures of the metatarsus and metacarpus treated?
Depending on which bones are fractured, how many bones are fractured, and the age of the animal, metatarsal and metacarpal fractures may be repaired in a few different ways. If at least one of the weight bearing bones is not fractured, the foot may be treated without surgery by immobilizing the foot in a cast or splint.
