What is a Bennett's fracture?

A Bennett's fracture is defined as an intraarticular fracture at the base of the first metacarpal, which typically occurs at the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb. This type of fracture often happens as a result of axial loading or a direct impact to the thumb while it is in a flexed position. Because the fracture extends into the joint, it can significantly affect the stability and functionality of the thumb, which is crucial for grip and pinching actions.

The nature of this fracture often results in the fractured fragment being displaced, leading to a more complicated healing process that may require surgical intervention to ensure proper alignment and function of the thumb. Recognition of this fracture and its implications is essential in orthopedic and hand surgery practice.

Other choices represent different types of fractures or locations that do not correspond to the specific definition of a Bennett's fracture, which is why they do not apply. For instance, a fracture of the radius at the wrist pertains to a different anatomical structure and injury pattern, while a fracture of the ulna and a fracture with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint also involve distinct injuries that are unrelated to Bennett's fracture.