A boxer fracture is a minimally comminuted transverse fracture of the 5th metacarpal. It typically occurs, as the name suggests, during punching, and is a common sight in emergency departments on a Friday night.
MechanismDirect blow with clenched fist against solid surface e.g. wall, face.
Radiographic featuresTransverse fracture of the metacarpal neck, with volar angulation of the distal fragment.
TreatmentAlthough it can be treated conservatively, it is relatively unstable, and K-wire fixation is often required for better cosmetic results.
Case Boxer fracture courtesy of Dr Hani Alsalam, radiopaedia.org