title: Avulsion Fractures at the Base of the 2(nd) Metacarpal Due to the Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus Tendon: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Simultaneous contraction of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) with forced hyperflexion of the wrist can result in avulsion of the tendon and its bony attachment at its insertion at the dorsum of the base of the second metacarpal. This is a rare and often unreported fracture pattern.
  
  
  METHODS
  We present a 31- year- old male who sustained a hyperflexion injury. He was managed surgically and had good post-operative outcomes. A literature search revealed 16 papers covering 18 cases of similar injuries. 12 were initially managed surgically and 6 were managed conservatively.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Of the open reductions and internal fixations, 11 (92%) were successful and patients made a full recovery. Conservative management was unsuccessful in 4 cases; one patient required surgery for metacarpal boss, one patient had retraction of the tendon at one week follow up and another had weak flexion of the wrist. We recommend open reduction and internal fixation for these injuries. It may allow a faster recovery and therefore allow an earlier return to work and activity.
authors.affiliation: Trauma and Orthopaedic Department, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Najefi
authors.affiliation: Trauma and Orthopaedic Department, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Lucksmana
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Jeyaseelan
authors.affiliation: Trauma and Orthopaedic Department, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Anand
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.affiliation: Trauma and Orthopaedic Department, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Akhil
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Kapoor
authors.affiliation: Trauma and Orthopaedic Department, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Sunil
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Auplish
keywords: Avulsion; Ecrl; Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus; Metacarpal; Tendon