Comparing two methods for fixing broken fifth metacarpal bones

Elastic Nail Versus Screw for Closed Reduction and Intramedullary Fixation of Displaced Fractures of the Fifth Metacarpal Neck: a Randomised Controlled Trial

NA · Istanbul University · NCT06449755

This study is testing two different ways to fix broken bones in the hand to see which method helps people heal better and regain grip strength faster.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment46 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul University (other)
Locations1 site (Istanbul, Fatih)
Trial IDNCT06449755 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of two different techniques for intramedullary fixation in patients with displaced fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either percutaneous screw fixation or elastic nail fixation after closed reduction. The study will evaluate grip strength, healing time, and radiological parameters at multiple follow-up points, including one week, one month, and three months postoperatively. The functionality of the hand will also be assessed using the Quick DASH score at the three-month mark.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-60 with displaced fifth metacarpal neck fractures exhibiting more than 30 degrees of angulation.

Not a fit: Patients with open fractures, multiple injuries, previous hand surgeries, or intraarticular fractures will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery outcomes and grip strength for patients with fifth metacarpal fractures.

How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored fixation methods for fractures, this specific comparison of screw versus elastic nail fixation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged 18-60 years with displaced fifth metacarpal fractures with angulation greater than 30 degrees

Exclusion Criteria:

* Open fracture
* Patients with multiple injuries
* History of hand surgery
* Intraarticular metacarpal neck fractures

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Fatih

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Metacarpal Fracture, Boxer's Fracture

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.