ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of modified percutaneous intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire for treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fracture.

MethodsA total of 24 patients with closed fracture of the fifth metacarpal neck were selected and divided into control group(n=11) and operation group(n=13) according to the treating method.The control group was treated with traditional reduction and plaster external fixation, and the operation group was treated with closed reduction and modified percutaneous intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire.The total active movement(TAM) system was used to evaluate the functional recovery of the two groups.

ResultsThe operation time of closed reduction and modified percutaneous intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire was 15 to 25 minutes.The X-ray examination after operation indicated that the fracture was restored well.The results of TAM system showed that there were 10 excellent cases and 3 good cases in operation group, and 3 excellent cases, 4 good cases and 4 fair cases in control group, and the difference of the therapeutic effect between two groups was statistically significant (u_c=2.40, P < 0.05).There was no irritation or injury of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve after operation in operation group.

ConclusionsClosed reduction and improved percutaneous intramedullary fixation with Kirschner wire for the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fracture is simple and easy to operate, with short external fixation time, minimal trauma, fewer complications and satisfactory results, which is worth popularizing.