What Are Proximal Phalanx Fractures and Why Do They Matter?
Published: Oct 24, 2023
Proximal phalanx fractures can be tricky due to the various muscle forces acting on them, often leading to deformities. This article explores what these fractures are and their implications.
Contents
Anatomy of the Proximal Phalanx
The proximal phalanx is a bone in your finger that can break due to different forces. Muscles like the lumbricals and interossei attach here, affecting how the fracture behaves. These muscles can cause the bone fragments to angle or rotate, making the fracture difficult to heal without proper alignment.
How Do These Fractures Happen?
Proximal phalanx fractures usually occur from a direct hit or twisting of the finger. The most common cause is a direct blow, which can lead to a fracture that's either straight across or shattered into pieces. Twisting injuries can result in a fractured bone that spirals or breaks inside the joint.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
People with this type of fracture often feel pain and see swelling and bruising. Moving the finger might be difficult. Doctors use X-rays to see how the bone is broken and if there's any rotation or shortening of the bone.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are often caused by a direct blow or twist to the finger.
They are diagnosed using X-rays to check for bone displacement.
Pain, swelling, bruising, and limited finger movement are common.
Yes, they can lead to finger deformities if not treated properly.
Key Takeaways
Proximal phalanx fractures require prompt attention to ensure proper healing and to avoid long-term finger issues.
Discuss with Doctronic how best to handle a suspected finger fracture today.Related Articles
References
Lögters TT, Lee HH, Gehrmann S, et al. Proximal Phalanx Fracture Management. Hand (N Y) 2018; 13:376.
Stern P. Fractures of the metacarpals and phalanges. In: Green's Operative Hand Surgery, 5th, Green DP, Pederson WC, Hotchkiss RN, Wolfe SW (Eds), Elsevier - Churchill Livingstone, Philadelphia 2005. p.277.
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