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What term is applied to a common fracture of the fifth metacarpal?

a. Colles fracture
b. Compression fracture
c. Boxer's fracture
d. Monteggia fracture

1 Answer

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Final answer:

A Boxer's fracture refers to a fracture of the fifth metacarpal bone at the base of the little finger, often caused by a punching action. The correct answer is option c.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term applied to a common fracture of the fifth metacarpal is a Boxer's fracture. This type of fracture typically results from a direct blow to a closed fist, as may occur in a fight or when punching a hard object. It involves a break in the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone, which is located at the base of the little finger.

A Colles fracture, on the other hand, refers to a break of the distal radius at the wrist, commonly caused by falling onto an outstretched hand. This results in the classic "dinner fork" deformity of the wrist and is often seen in older adults with osteoporosis. The most commonly fractured carpal bone is the scaphoid, which can be mistaken for a wrist sprain until a radiograph reveals the fracture.

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