Treatment of Boxer's Fracture
Assessment and Diagnosis
- Look for obvious deformity, swelling, or bruising of the hand; severe pain with movement; or inability to move the affected digit, as recommended by the American Heart Association, based on evidence from Circulation 1
Surgical Management
- For boxer's fractures with open fractures, multiple fractures, or other complications, consider closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, as suggested by the American College of Cardiology, based on evidence from Circulation 1
- If a fracture is associated with an open wound and severe bleeding, follow first aid for severe external bleeding, as recommended by the American Heart Association, based on evidence from Circulation 1
- If a fractured extremity appears blue, purple, or pale, seek emergency medical care immediately, as advised by the American College of Cardiology, based on evidence from Circulation 1
Rehabilitation
- An appropriate rehabilitation program should include muscle strengthening, as recommended by the European League Against Rheumatism, based on evidence from Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2
- Long-term continuation of hand exercises is essential for recovery, as suggested by the European League Against Rheumatism, based on evidence from Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2
- Patients should be educated about pain management strategies, as recommended by the European League Against Rheumatism, based on evidence from Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2
- Patients should be educated about rehabilitation exercises, as suggested by the European League Against Rheumatism, based on evidence from Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2
- Patients should be educated about signs of complications requiring medical attention, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology, based on evidence from Circulation 1