The hamate bone is one of eight small bones of the wrist.
Collectively, the bones are called the carpalsa word that comes from the Latin word meaning “wrist.”
The hamate bone is an unusually shaped bone.
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Fractures in the Hook of the Hamate
Fractures of the hook of the hamate are unusual.
Less than 2% of all carpal bone fractures involve the hook of the hamate.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of a fracture of the hook of the hamate is pain.
Swelling, bruising, and weakness of grip are also common.
In more longstanding cases, symptoms may also includeabnormal nerve function of the ulnar nerve.
The ulnar nerve is one of the major nerves supplying sensation to the hand and fingers.
Typical wristX-raysusually look normal in patients with a fracture of the hook of the hamate.
MRI and CT scans are more sensitive at showing fractures of the hook of the hamate.
Use of acast to immobilizethe broken bone can sometimes be effective, but the results are not reliable.
Healing of the fracture may not occur, and patients are likely to need further treatment.
Repair of the fracture is generally avoided.
The reliability of recovery from this surgery is very good.
Athletes typically take 6-8 weeks to recover from this surgery and return to sports.
Earp BE, Waters PM.Hand and Wrist Injuries.Clinical Sports Medicine.
2017;42(10):803809. doi:10.1016/j.jhsa.2017.06.108
