Rontgen Ray Diagnosis and Therapy (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1904 edition. Excerpt: ...considered other means of immobilization. After filling up the interosseous grooves between the fourth metacarpal bone and the little finger on one side and the third one on the other with two rubber drainage-tubes, the author took a skiagraph, which showed the fragments in ideal apposition. Shortly afterward he removed the rubber tubes, and then the displacement recurred at once. From this we also learn that it is unwise to rely upon the old dictum that metacarpal fractures show perfect consolidation after three weeks. We should consult the Riintgen rays before satisfying ourselves as to the question of impeccable union. (As to further details, see New York Medical Journal, August 1, 1900.) Fig. 167 illustrates the fracture of the second metacarpus in a man of twenty-three years. There was but a slight degree of sideward displacement, still the sharp point of the lower fragment projected to the soft tissues, causing much irritation. As soon as inward and downward pressure was exereised the pain ceased. Fig. 168 shows fractures of the fifth metacarpus. There is good apposition, but much ensheathing callus, which caused adhesions to the soft tissues, so that the function was much disturbed. Thus the patient, a young professional violinist, may be prevented from following the footsteps of Paganini. Immobilization had been attempted in this case by a short phalangeal splint. While reposition as well as immobilization of the fifth metacarpal bone is easier than that of any of its fellows, the fragments cannot be held in situ by simple pressure from with Fio. 167.--Fracture Of The Second Metacarpal Bone. out, a rubber drainage-splint should therefore be placed in the space between them and the fourth metacarpal bone. Fig. 169 illustrates the...