Hand fractures and dislocations are among the most common injuries encountered by plastic surgeons, and their management directly impacts long-term function. In this episode, we break down the essentials of diagnosis, treatment, and surgical decision-making for common fractures and dislocations of the hand, drawing on the landmark PRS review by Jones, Jupiter, and Lalonde.

We focus on the core treatment philosophy: achieving full range of motion through fracture reduction with minimal dissection and early protected movement. From non-operative methods like buddy taping to surgical strategies involving K-wires, lag screws, and plating, we highlight when to operate and when conservative management suffices.

Key topics include:

• Bennett & Reverse Bennett fractures: why anatomical reduction matters.

• Metacarpal shaft & neck fractures: acceptable angulation thresholds and fixation choices.

• Phalangeal fractures: risks of stiffness, early motion protocols, and fixation techniques.

• PIP joint dislocations: splinting, extension block pinning, and complex salvage options like volar plate arthroplasty or hemi-hamate grafting.

• Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the thumb: how to recognize and treat Stener lesions.

This is a must-know topic for residents preparing for boards and anyone seeking practical pearls in hand trauma surgery.

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📘 Free Study Guides: → https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/12BUldPbCmihG-ndZh6992WqhRYyxw8ZZ 

References:

Jones NF, Jupiter JB, Lalonde DH. Common fractures and dislocations of the hand. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2012;130(5):722e–736e. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e318267d67a