The investigators are conducting a randomized clinical trial comparing two types of splints for treatment of Boxer's fractures in children up to age 17 inclusive. Patients who meet inclusion criteria will be randomized to either Group A or B. Group A will be treated with the conventional plaster ulnar gutter splint. Group B will be treated with a custom molded thermoplastic hand-based splint. The thermoplastic splint will provide support of the metacarpal but does not immobilize the patient's wrist or interphalangeal joints. Hypothesis: Is plaster splint immobilization an equivalent treatment method to a custom made thermoplastic splint for a fifth metacarpal neck fracture? Will one splint be tolerated better than the other and will the compliance be different between the two groups?
Age range
16 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Range of Motion
Timeframe: up to 12 weeks
Compliance
Timeframe: 3 weeks post fracture