Phone: 817-697-4038 Fax: 877-409-3962

Rolando Fracture Fixation

IF YOU NEED A ROLANDO FRACTURE FIXATION, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

What is a Rolando Fracture Fixation?

A Rolando fracture occurs when the first metacarpal bone in the hand, where it connects to the wrist, sustains a specific type of fracture. This fracture presents a Y-shaped or T-shaped pattern involving the joint surface. Additionaly, high-energy trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the thumb, often causes this injury. While Rolando fractures are less common than other hand fractures, they can cause significant pain, swelling, and thumb and hand dysfunction. Moreover, treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint. Futhermore, in some instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the fractured bone fragments and restore proper joint function. Additionally, receiving prompt medical attention deems crucial to prevent complications and promote optimal healing. However, do not confuse this fracture with a thumb fracture.

Types of Rolando Fracture Fixation

Various methods fix Rolando fractures, each tailored to injury severity and characteristics. Surgeons commonly use open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This entails making surgical incisions to realign fractured bone fragments, followed by placing screws, plates, or wires to stabilize the fracture. Physicians use CRPP (Closed Reduction Percutaneous Pinning) as another method. This method aligns the fracture without surgery, often followed by applying a cast or splint to immobilize the hand and promote healing. CRPP involves inserting pins through the skin into the fractured bone for stabilization. Sometimes, external fixation is employed, inserting pins or screws into the bone above and below the fracture site, connected to an external frame. Additionally, this maintains alignment and stability while allowing for swelling and soft tissue healing.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Recovery from Rolando fracture fixation encompasses several stages, each crucial for optimal healing and rehabilitation. Following surgery, patients typically experience pain and swelling, which healthcare providers manage with pain medications and elevation of the affected hand. Immobilization with a cast, splint, or external fixation device is often necessary to support the healing process and maintain alignment. Physical therapy initiates once the initial healing phase concludes, focusing on regaining range of motion, strength, and function in the hand and thumb. Therapy incorporates exercises, manual techniques, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy. As recovery advances, gradual reintroduction of daily activities and functional tasks is encouraged. Full recovery may span several months, contingent on the fracture’s severity and individual healing response. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are crucial to monitor progress, address any complications, and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

 

 

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO AN ORTHOPEDIC HAND AND WRIST SPECIALIST IN DALLAS, FORT WORTH, OR THE LONE STAR STATE, GIVE US A CALL AT 817-697-4038, OR CONTACT US OVER THE WEB. TELE-MEDICINE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.