Thumb Fractures and Associated Injuries: An Evidence Based Review to Guide Treatment.

J Hand Surg Am · Sep 2026 · Review

Yang BW, Kamal RN, Shapiro LM

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONEvidence-based review of thumb fractures and associated collateral ligament injuries; extra-articular fractures tolerate residual deformity, while intra-articular fractures like Bennett and Rolando usually need surgery to restore joint congruity.
Abstract, as published

Fractures of the thumb encompass a diverse spectrum of injury patterns, each requiring nuanced consideration of various treatment strategies. Associated conditions include injuries to the ulnar collateral ligament and radial collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint, which can significantly impact thumb stability and function. Although extra-articular fractures of the thumb metacarpal and phalanges are more tolerant of residual deformity due to compensatory movement of the carpometacarpal joint, intra-articular fractures, including Bennett and Rolando fractures, often benefit from surgical intervention to restore articular congruity. This review provides an updated analysis of the treatment and fixation options for thumb fractures and associated ligamentous injuries.

Featured in the 2026-08-20 issue.

← On the Physiology of the Sensory-Collapse Test.Iatrogenic Nerve Injuries Affecting Upper Limb Function: Medi… →

The Reduction is a free email digest of newly published orthopaedic literature — a handful of new papers in the subspecialties you choose, each summarized like this one. Subscribe free or browse the archive.