1254 Virtual Fracture Clinic Management of Little (5th) Metacarpal Neck Fractures; a Safe and Feasible Option?
Abstract Aim To determine the safety and efficacy of a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) in managing little metacarpal neck fractures. Method Retrospective review of consecutive little MC neck fractures presenting to the ED June-December 2020 and subsequently referred on to VFC. Patient demographics and clinic outcomes were reviewed using electronic patient records and radiographs. Results Fifty patients were identified (Male:Female 37:13; mean age 26 years, range 3-89 years). Of these, 41/50 were discharged directly following VFC advice, with no adverse event. The remaining 9/50 had a face-to-face Fracture Clinic review due to safeguarding concerns (2), concurrent neck of fourth MC fracture (2), concerns regarding fracture pattern (4), and an unclear indication (1). These 9/50 were discharged after single review, with no adverse events to date. Conclusions Our data suggest that VFC review of patients with little MC neck fractures is a safe and feasible means of patient care which has the potential to reduce the requirement of face-to-face patient contact during the Covid-19 pandemic and reduce fracture clinic attendance. We suggest the routine incorporation of a Virtual Fracture Clinic for these hand injuries. Further work is needed to formally investigate associated patient satisfaction and the application of this approach to other trauma presentations.