User:Mr. Ibrahem/Bennett fracture

A Bennett fracture is a type of broken finger involving the base of the thumb, which extends into the knuckle joint. Symptoms generally include thumb swelling and pain. Associated injuries may include ulnar collateral ligament injury of the thumb or trapezium fracture.

The cause is generally a force along the long axis of the thumb. Diagnosis is supported by X-rays. There is nearly always some degree of disruption of the carpometacarpal joint.

Treatment often requires surgery; though in cases in which bones are well aligned casting in a thumb spica for 3 to 4 weeks may be sufficient. If the bones are well realigned outcomes are generally good. Otherwise arthritis may lead to decreased function.

Bennett fractures are relatively common, being the most common fracture of the base of the thumb. Males are affected 10 times more often than females. It is named for Edward Hallaran Bennett.