Digital Arterial Occlusion at the Metacarpophalangeal Joint with Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome-like Symptoms: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: We present a rare case of ischemia caused by blunt trauma at the metacarpophalangeal joint, with no fracture or dislocation. This case resulted in digital arterial injury of the little finger with a pathological mechanism similar to that of hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS). CASE REPORT: Pre-operative computed tomography (CT) revealed an occluded ulnar artery at the brachial artery bifurcation and occluded ulnar digital artery in the little finger. The blunt trauma to the radial digital artery of the little finger caused ischemia. Arterial anastomosis was performed microsurgically to preserve the little finger. Necrosis was successfully prevented. The condition of the finger improved gradually, with no restriction in the range of motion. CONCLUSION: When a patient presents with HHS-like symptoms and is unresponsive to conservative treatment, surgical treatment should be considered. We recommend using contrast-enhanced CT for evaluating the entire upper extremity, even for ischemia associated with blunt hand trauma, such as HHS.