Bennett fracture

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ABennett fracture-dislocation of is a fracture of the thumb ~~results from~~resultant of forced abduction of ~~the thumb, and is defined~~the first metacarpal. Defined as an intra-articular two-part fracture of the base of the first metacarpal bone.

Radiographic features

Plain radiograph

two ~~pieces~~piece fracture dislocation of the base of the thumb metacarpal
intra-articular extension
dorsolateral dislocation
small fragment of 1^st metacarpal continues to articulate with trapezium
lateral retraction of the first metacarpal shaft by abductor pollicis longus

When an intra-articular fracture of the 1st metacarpal is comminuted, producing at least three parts, it is referred to as a Rolando fracture which has a worse prognosis.

Treatment and prognosis

The fracture requires open reduction and fixation if there is significant displacement (>3 mm). Clearly, this is also influenced by the age and profession/hobbies of the patient, as a step in the articular surface will predispose to secondary osteoarthritis. If malunion or non-union occurs, a pseudoarthrosis may result.

History and etymology

It is named after Edward Hallaran Bennett (1837-1907), a surgeon from Dublin, Ireland.

Differential diagnosis

epibasal (pseudo Bennett) fracture
- extra-articular fractures through the first metacarpal base
Rolando fracture
- comminuted intra-articular fracture through the first metacarpal base

-<p><strong>Bennett fracture-dislocation</strong> of the thumb results from forced abduction of the thumb, and is defined as an intra-articular two-part fracture of the base of the first metacarpal bone.</p><h4>Radiographic features</h4><h5>Plain radiograph</h5><ul>
~~-<li>two pieces fracture dislocation of the base of the thumb metacarpal </li>~~
+<p>A<strong> Bennett fracture-dislocation</strong> is a fracture of the thumb resultant of forced abduction of the first metacarpal. Defined as an intra-articular two-part fracture of the base of the first metacarpal bone.</p><h4>Radiographic features</h4><h5>Plain radiograph</h5><ul>
+<li>two piece fracture dislocation of the base of the thumb metacarpal </li>

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