Trapezium fracture

This patient has suffered a forced hyperextension of her thumb. She had pain with movement of her thumb and tenderness in the anatomic snuffbox. The PA and oblique films demonstrate a displaced fracture of the trapezium.

Fractures of the trapezium require prompt referral to an orthopedic or hand specialist. Undisplaced fractures can be managed with a thumb spica cast for 6 weeks. Displaced fractures require anatomic reduction and stabilization.