Bennett fracture
Pronunciation: BEN-it
Intra-articular fracture-dislocation of the base of the first metacarpal involving the carpometacarpal joint.
Full Definition
A Bennett fracture is a specific type of intra-articular fracture occurring at the base of the first metacarpal bone, involving the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb. This injury pattern consists of a small triangular fragment that remains attached to the trapezium via the strong anterior oblique ligament, while the larger metacarpal shaft subluxates radially and dorsally due to the pull of the abductor pollicis longus muscle. Bennett fractures typically result from axial loading of a partially flexed thumb and require anatomic reduction to restore joint congruity and prevent post-traumatic arthritis. Treatment usually involves closed reduction with percutaneous pinning or open reduction with internal fixation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from Rolando fracture which is a comminuted fracture at the same location
In Context
- "CT imaging confirmed a displaced Bennett fracture requiring surgical fixation." — Radiology interpretation
- "The patient underwent ORIF of a Bennett fracture using two percutaneous K-wires." — Operative report