Hand/Wrist/Elbow Pain: Fractures

Hand/Wrist/Elbow Fractures Kirkland, WA

Dr. Galle treats a wide range of fractures involving the bones of the hand, wrist and elbow. These fractures can result from trauma, sports injuries, car accidents and many more. Some common types of fractures that Dr. Galle encounters include:

1. Phalangeal Fractures: Fractures of the bones in the fingers (phalanges) are quite common and can be treated simple with splint immobilization or complicated surgical procedures to stabilize the injury. 
2. Metacarpal Fractures: Fractures of the metacarpal bones, which are the long bones in the palm of the hand, can occur due to direct trauma or indirect forces. Fractures of the fifth metacarpal, known as “boxer’s fractures,” are particularly common.
3. Distal Radius Fractures: Fractures of the distal radius, the larger bone in the wrist, are among the most common fractures seen by hand surgeons. These fractures often result from falls onto an outstretched hand.
4. Scaphoid Fractures: Fractures of the scaphoid, the most common carpal bone to break, can occur due to falls onto the outstretched hand or other trauma. Scaphoid fractures can be challenging to diagnose and may require advanced imaging studies.
5. Hamate Fractures: Fractures of the hamate bone, another carpal bone in the wrist, can occur due to direct trauma. The classic patient is the golf player who mistakenly hits the ground while trying to hit the long ball leading to a particular fracture of the hook of the hamate. 

Dr. Galle employs various techniques for the treatment of fractures, including closed reduction and casting, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plates, screws, or pins, external fixation. In some cases, conservative management with splinting or casting is preferred. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the type and location of the fracture, the patient’s age and activity level, and the presence of any associated injuries.