Boxer's fracture management uses which splint?

• A. Short arm cast
• B. Dorsal blocking splint
• C. Ulnar gutter splint
• D. Thumb spica splint

Answer: (C)

Boxer's fracture involves the neck of the fifth metacarpal, so the aim is to immobilize the ring and little fingers to prevent further angulation and rotation as the fracture heals. An ulnar gutter splint fits along the ulnar side of the hand and immobilizes the MCP joints of the ring and little fingers, usually with the wrist in a neutral position and the MCP joints flexed about 60–90 degrees. This targeted support keeps the fracture aligned during healing and is generally more effective for this injury than a generic short arm cast, while remaining more specific than splints intended for other finger injuries. The thumb spica splint is for thumb injuries, and the dorsal blocking splint is used for extensor tendon injuries, so they aren’t appropriate for a fifth metacarpal neck fracture.