Boxer's fracture

A boxer's fracture is the common name for a fracture at the top of the fifth metacarpal bone. It is usually caused by the impact of a clenched fist with an immovable object, such as a wall or skull. The pinky knuckle tends to lead the rest of the knuckles in a hard punch, and the knuckle compresses and snaps the head of the metacarpal bone. These fractues are often angulated, and if severely so require pins to be put in place and realignment as well as the usual splinting. However, the prognosis on these fractures is generally good, with total healing time not exceeding 12 weeks.