Hypothenar hammer syndrome: an uncommon cause of digital ischemia.
Unilateral digital ischemia may occur as a result of repetitive use of the hypothenar eminence as a hammer, with resultant damage to the wall of the ulnar artery and the superficial palmar arch. Secondary thrombus formation from intimal damage and potential embolization may cause signs and symptoms of arterial insufficiency in the second through fifth digits. Three automobile mechanics with unilateral ischemia caused by hypothenar hammer syndrome are described. All three patients had improvement with conservative treatment and continued to work with only minimal disability.
Duncan
W C
WC
Section of Dermatology, Watson Clinic, Lakeland, Florida, USA.
D000328:Adult; D005385:Fingers / Q000098:blood supply*; D006801:Humans; D007511:Ischemia / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D017535:Ulnar Artery / Q000293:injuries