Long-term follow-up of hypothenar hammer syndrome: a series of 47 patients

Symptomatic Upper Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease is Associated With Poor Outcomes and a Broad Spectrum of Etiologies

The symptomatic upper extremity peripheral artery disease (sUE-PAD) is poorly studied compared with the lower extremity peripheral artery disease (LE-PAD). We aimed to describe sUE-PAD etiologies and outcomes at 2 years. From an observational survey conducted in two French tertiary hospitals, demographic characteristics, etiology, treatment, and outcomes during follow-up were collected on patients with ICD-10 I74.2 code (arterial thrombosis of the upper limbs). We identified 181 patients (53% male, 55 ± 17 years) with hypothenar hammer syndrome (13.8%), cardioembolism (13.3%), atheroma (12.7%), or connective tissue disease (10.5%). No etiology could be found for 16.0% of them. The amputation rate was 13.3%, and lasting symptoms remained at 21.3%. During follow-up, atrial fibrillation occurred in 1 patient and cancer in 4. At 2 years, 59 patients were lost to follow-up, 110 patients were alive, and 12 patients had died. Age and cancer were associated with death. sUE-PAD is not benign, with 20% impaired upper extremity outcome and 10% overall mortality at 2 years. Less frequent than LE-PAD, sUE-PAD presents different characteristics: more women, younger age, and a broad spectrum of etiologies. sUE-PAD requires thorough etiological assessment and is considered to be associated with a severe overall prognosis.

A Case of Arterial Bypass for Extensive Stenosis of the Ulnar Artery and Superficial Palmar Arch due to Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome

We present a case of arterial bypass for extensive stenosis of the ulnar artery and superficial palmar arch. The ulnar artery and the superficial palmar arch were bypassed using the great saphenous vein. Postoperatively, blood flow to the affected fingers gradually improved and the pain disappeared. Contrast-enhanced CT showed good visualization of the superficial palmar arch and more distal digital arteries. Considering the slow improvement in blood flow and the dilation of the stenotic finger artery postoperatively, it appeared that there was a significant effect of spasm in addition to organic stenosis preoperatively and that revascularization was an effective treatment.

Successful percutaneous management of hypothenar hammer syndrome with thrombosuction and catheter-directed intra-arterial thrombolysis

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare vascular disorder leading to ulnar artery thrombosis or aneurysm and causing acute or chronic limb ischemia. The optimal approaches to managing this condition lack a definitive consensus and are essentially empirical, typically necessitating conservative methods for symptomatic relief, with surgical intervention reserved for cases for which conservative measures prove inadequate or when acute limb ischemia ensues. Limited data are available on percutaneous management for this condition. We present the case of a 36-year-old male powerlifter who developed acute digital ischemia due to HHS in the left hand that was managed successfully through an innovative approach using antegrade left brachial artery access and combining percutaneous thrombosuction and intra-arterial thrombolysis. This comprehensive approach resulted in restoration of blood flow and resolution of acute limb ischemia. The patient was subsequently prescribed short-term anticoagulation therapy and remained symptom free at 3 months of follow-up. This innovative strategy challenges traditional surgical approaches in HHS management, underscoring the importance of using minimally invasive techniques as a promising alternative and highlighting potential avenues for further research.

Fistulized Pseudoaneurysm Associated with Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome to the Skin in a 12-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

In this case, we present a condition where the extension of the hamate hook in the Guyon canal can damage the ulnar artery or its branches, leading to the development of an aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm. The patient, a 12-year-old female, presented to our clinic with a complaint of an uncontrolled palm lump that has been growing for several months and began to bleed in a pulsatile manner after trauma. She was an amateur volleyball player who trained twice weekly for two hours. Color Doppler ultrasound examination revealed a 1.1×0.8 cm pseudoaneurysm in a branch of the ulnar artery. Aneurysmectomy and primary repair were performed. Timely diagnosis and treatment planning are crucial for ulnar artery pseudoaneurysms or aneurysms to prevent ischemic events in a later period.

[Paroxysmal vascular acrosyndromes: Practical approach to diagnosis and management]

Paroxysmal vascular acrosyndromes are related to a peripheral vasomotor disorder and presented as paroxysmal color changes of the fingers. They include primary Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), which is the most common, secondary RP and erythermalgia. They are to be distinguished from non-paroxysmal acrosyndromes such as acrocyanosis and chilblains, which are very frequent and often associated with RP, digital ischemia and necrosis, spontaneous digital hematoma and acrocholosis. The challenge of a consultation for a vascular acrosyndrome is to make positive diagnosis through history and clinical examination, and to specify its nature, to prescribe complementary exams. In any patient consulting for RP, assessment includes at least an antinuclear antibody test and capillaroscopy. For erythermalgia, a blood count and even a search for JAK2 mutation are required. A thryoid-stimulating hormon assay, a test for antinuclear antibodies, and a search for small fiber neuropathy are also performed. The treatment of RP is essentially documented for secondary RP where calcium channel blockers are indicated in first line, and iloprost in severe cases. The treatment of primitive erythermalgia is based on sodium channel blockers such as mexiletine or lidocaine infusions, and on drugs effective on neuropathic pain, such as gabapentin or amitryptiline, in case of erythermalgia associated with small fiber neuropathy. The treatment of erythermalgia associated with myeloproliferative syndromes is based on etiological treatment and aspirin.

Bilateral Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome Case Presentation and Literature Review

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare cause of vascular insufficiency. Generally, patients report a history of repetitive trauma to the hypothenar region of the hand. Symptoms often consist of cold intolerance, pain, paleness, and paresthesia due to digital ischemia. The severity of these symptoms will depend on the extent of ulnar artery occlusion and the presence or absence of collaterals between this artery's superficial and deep branches. It is a rare clinical entity, which on multiple occasions requires a surgical approach. We present a 63-year-old man with bilateral Raynaud's phenomenon secondary to hypothenar hammer syndrome successfully treated by vascular repair surgery. In patients with Raynaud's phenomenon, it is important to know that there are reversible causes such as hypothenar hammer syndrome.

[Accident-related and workplace-related vascular disorders of the hand]

BACKGROUND

Limited hand function as the result of occupational exposure or accidental injury could primarily be of vascular origin. Since it is quite rarely seen in the course of routine traumatology, special awareness of this is needed.

AIM OF THE PAPER

The occupational diseases hypothenar/thenar hammer syndrome (occupational disease 2114) and vibration-induced vasospastic syndrome (occupational disease 2104) are presented on the basis of their etiological and pathogenetic characteristics, taking aspects of occupational medicine and expert opinion into consideration.

DISCUSSION

Blunt force trauma to vascular structures of the hand can damage the tunica intima of the affected thenar or hypothenar arteries. Chronic exposure of the arms, hands and fingers to vibration can lead to the injury of nerve and vascular structures. Thermometry and pallesthesiometry are used in the diagnostics alongside methods of vascular medicine.

CONCLUSION

Vascular entities can also play a role in the surgical assessment of the impact of an accident or of an occupational disease after exposure to vibration. Awareness of them can shorten the latency between the onset of symptoms and a definitive diagnosis.

Endovascular Thrombolysis in Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Objectives: Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare vascular disease caused by blunt trauma of the hypothenar region. The optimal therapeutic strategy remains debatably since no large comparative studies are available yet. We want to evaluate the effectiveness of intra-arterial thrombolysis on angiographic and clinical outcome parameters in patients with HHS by performing a systematic review of the existing literature.

Methods: A literature search of PUBMED/MEDLINE and SCIENCE DIRECT databases was performed up to May 2021.

Results: In total, 16 manuscripts with 43 patients were included in the systematic review. Intra-arterial thrombolysis led to angiographic improvement in 29 patients (67.4%) and to clinical improvement in 34 patients (79.1%). Deterioration of arterial perfusion or clinical symptoms after thrombolysis were absent. Post-interventional complications were reported in only one patient (2.3%) without any bleeding complication. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that a combined administration of fibrinolytics and heparin was associated with a significantly improved arterial patency [OR 12.57 (95% CI 2.48–97.8), p = 0.005] without significant amelioration of clinical symptoms [OR 3.20 (95% CI 0.6–18.9), p = 0.172]. The use of rt-PA compared to other fibrinolytics and a prolonged thrombolysis duration of more than 24 h did not show statistically significant effects. Intra-arterial thrombolysis was significantly less effective in patients who had undergone thrombolysis with a delay of more than 30 days regarding clinical improvement [OR 0.07 (95% CI 0.00–0.54), p = 0.024].

Conclusions: Intra-arterial thrombolysis with a combination of fibrinolytics and heparin is an effective and safe therapeutic option in patients with acute HHS.

Upper limb arterial pattern: clinical correlation and embryological perspective

Background

Variations in the upper limb arterial pattern are commonplace and necessitate complete familiarity for successful surgical and interventional procedures. Variance in the vascular tree may involve any part of the axis artery of the upper limb, including the axillary artery and brachial artery or its branches, in the form of radial and ulnar arteries, which eventually supply the hand via anastomosing arches.

Objectives

To study the peculiarities of the arterial pattern of the upper limb and to correlate them with embryological development.

Methods

The entire arterial branching of forty-two upper limbs of formalin fixed adult human cadavers was examined during routine dissection for educational purposes, conducted over a 3-year period in the Department of Anatomy, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi.

Results

The study found: 1) One case in which a common trunk arose from the third part of the axillary artery, which immediately splayed into four branches (2.4%); 2) High division of the brachial artery into ulnar and radial arteries, in 3 cases (7.1%); 3) Pentafurcation of the brachial artery into ulnar, interosseus, radial, and radial recurrent arteries and a muscular twig to the brachioradialis in 1/42 cases (2.4%); 4) Incomplete Superficial Palmar arch in 3/42 cases (7.1%); and 5) Presence of a median artery in 2/42 case(4.8%)

Conclusions

This study observed and described the varied arterial patterns of the upper limb and identified the various anomalous patterns, supplementing the surgeon’s armamentarium in various surgical procedures, thereby helping to prevent complications or failures of reconstructive surgeries, bypass angiography, and many similar procedures.

Digital ischaemia aetiologies and mid-term follow-up: A cohort study of 323 patients

Upper extremity digital ischaemia (UEDI) is a rare heterogeneous condition whose frequency is 40 times less than that of toe ischaemia. Using a large cohort, the aim of this study was to evaluate aetiologies, prognosis and midterm clinical outcomes of UEDI.All patients with UEDI with or without cutaneous necrosis in a university hospital setting between January 2000 to December 2016 were included. Aetiologies, recurrence of UEDI, digital amputation and survival were analyzed retrospectively.Three hundred twenty three patients were included. UEDI due to cardio-embolic disease (DICE) was the highest occurring aetiology with 59 patients (18.3%), followed by DI due to Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) (16.1%), idiopathic causes (11.7%), Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) (9.3%), iatrogenic causes (9.3%), and cancer (6.2%). DICE patients tended to be older and featured more cases with arterial hypertension whereas TAO patients smoked more tobacco and cannabis. During follow-up, recurrences were significantly more frequent in SSc than in all other tested groups (P < .0001 vs idiopathic and DICE, P = .003 vs TAO) and among TAO patients when compared to DICE patients (P = .005). The cumulated rate of digital amputation was higher in the SSc group (n = 18) (P = .02) and the TAO group (n = 7) (P = .03) than in DICE (n = 2).This retrospective study suggests that main aetiologies of UEDI are DICE, SSc and idiopathic. This study highlights higher frequency of iatrogenic UEDI than previous studies. UEDI associated with SSc has a poor local prognosis (amputations and recurrences) and DICE a poor survival. UEDI with SSc and TAO are frequently recurrent.

Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis as an Atypical Cause of Deep Motor Branch Neuropathy

Objectives

Compression of the ulnar nerve in Guyon's canal results in ulnar tunnel syndrome (UTS). The patient may present with sensory and motor deficits (zone 1), motor deficit (zone 2), or sensory deficit (zone 3). The most common causes of UTS include ganglion cysts, idiopathic ulnar nerve compression, occupational pressure neuritis (repetitive compression), prolonged compression, hook of hamate fractures, and arterial thrombus or aneurysm.

Case Report

We report an atypical cause of UTS involving pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) with a review of the literature. Surgical decompression of the ulnar nerve at Guyon's canal has resulted in resolving motor weakness and improved interosseous strength at latest follow-up.

Conclusion

The most common causes of UTS are ganglion, occupational neuritis, prolonged compression, and ulnar artery thrombi/aneurysms. However, other more rare causes such as PVNS should be considered in the appropriate patient.

Use of Arterial Grafts in Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: Application of Perforator Flap Anatomy

Background

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is traditionally treated with venous bypass grafting, but controversy has arisen as arterial grafts have become more available.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing ulnar artery bypass grafting for HHS with an arterial graft from 2008 to 2017 was performed. We also review the literature for patency rates and discuss the scenarios that favor different graft choices.

Results

Six patients were included in our series. Five had primary surgery and 1 had revision surgery for HHS. Five arterial grafts were from the deep inferior epigastric artery and 1 was from the lateral circumflex femoral artery. The proximal anastomotic site was the ulnar artery for all: n = 6. The distal anastomosis site was the palmar arch and common digital artery (CDA) of the ring/small finger and CDA of the middle/ring finger: n = 3; the palmar arch and the CDA of the ring/small finger: n = 3. All patients were symptom-free at follow-up and had a patent ulnar artery on Allen's testing or angiogram.

Conclusion

Patency rates of arterial grafts for HHS appear to be excellent and this small series and may offer an alternative to traditional venous grafts and end-to-end arterial anastomoses. We suggest using arterial perforator grafts from free flap donor sites. These have well-described anatomy, are easily harvested, and carry minimal donor site morbidity. Lateral circumflex femoral artery graft is favored in patients requiring a single distal anastomosis, who have a ventral hernia, or who are obese. Deep inferior epigastric artery graft is preferred when multiple distal targets or versatile configurations are needed, in thin patients, or in female patients.

Ulnar tunnel syndrome: pathoanatomy, clinical features and management

Ulnar tunnel syndrome is compression of the ulnar nerve at the level of the wrist within Guyon's canal. It is most commonly caused by a ganglion cyst but may also be secondary to fractures, inflammatory conditions, neoplasm, vascular anomalies, aberrant musculature or a combination of these. Assessment should include a detailed history focusing on duration, site and progression of symptoms. The level of compression can be estimated clinically on examination by assessing motor and sensory changes in the hand. Investigations are used to confirm diagnosis or to clarify the underlying cause. X-rays and computed tomography can be used to exclude fractures. Ultrasound is used to diagnose ganglion cysts and vascular anomalies, and can localise the level of compression. Nerve conduction studies can be used to support the diagnosis and look for proximal compression. Mild symptoms can be managed non-operatively. Surgical exploration and decompression is the gold standard treatment for neuro-compressive causes with largely good outcomes.

Organische und funktionelle Durchblutungsstörungen der Hand – differenzialdiagnostische Aspekte

Die Abklärung von venösen und arteriellen Durchblutungsstörungen sowie Lymphödemen gehört zur täglichen Praxisroutine des Gefäßmediziners. Nicht selten werden von chirurgischen Kollegen Patienten mit Beschwerden im Schulter-, Arm- und Handbereich zum Ausschluss einer vaskulären Ursache vorgestellt. Der wohl häufigste Abklärungsgrund im Handbereich ist das Raynaud-Phänomen. Neben arteriosklerotischen Durchblutungsstörungen und der Thrombangiitis obliterans sind das Hypothenar-/Thenar-Hammer-Syndrom und das Vibrationssyndrom in den Fingern eher wenig bekannte Entitäten, deren Kenntnis jedoch neben dem medizinischen Vorgehen auch versicherungsrelevante Konsequenzen haben kann. Während beim Hypothenar-/Thenar-Hammer-Syndrom eine organische Durchblutungsstörung vorliegt, beinhaltet das Vibrationssyndrom der Finger eine funktionell vaskuläre sowie eine nervale Komponente, die eine Trennung vom Karpaltunnelsyndrom erschwert. Bei beiden Entitäten ist eine Berufsanamnese häufig hilfreich. Schon der Verdacht auf eine Berufskrankheit muss nach Gesetzeslage zur Anzeige gebracht werden. Der Artikel beschreibt die wesentlichen pathophysiologischen Mechanismen beider Entitäten und stellt diagnostische und therapeutische Optionen dar. Die Kenntnis beider Erkrankungen erweitert die differenzialdiagnostische Vorgehensweise in der täglichen Praxisroutine bei Patienten mit Schulter-Arm-Hand-Beschwerden und bei Patienten mit Raynaud-Phänomen.

Prospective assessment of function and cold-intolerance following revascularization for hypothenar hammer syndrome

Ulnar artery revascularization in hypothenar hammer syndrome has repeatedly been shown to reduce ischaemic symptoms, however with varying graft patency percentages. This study prospectively assesses the effect of revascularization surgery with a vein graft using validated questionnaires in seven patients. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and the Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity (CISS) questionnaires have been used to compare the preoperative and postoperative functionality and cold intolerance. All patients showed improvement in either functionality, or cold intolerance, or both from disabled to nearly normalized levels and resumed their occupation at final follow-up (mean of 28 months). Strikingly this was also the case in a patient with graft stenosis. Patients with the highest preoperative questionnaire scores showed most postoperative improvement. In conclusion, revascularization surgery seems to improve the symptomatology irrespective of graft patency. Questionnaires can be a valuable contribution to quantify and to follow the symptomatology in hypothenar hammer syndrome.

Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome with Ulnar Nerve Neuropathy

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare medical condition that is usually associated with repetitive hand trauma. In this article, we delineate the importance of the nerve conduction velocity study to help determine objectively whether neuropathy is significant to the point that surgical means should be considered in absence of obvious ischemic change.

Long-term Patient-Reported Outcomes After Surgery for Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome

Background: This study aims to describe the long-term patient-reported outcomes after surgery for hypothenar hammer syndrome (HTHS) and to identify factors associated with inferior outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively identified 27 patients who underwent surgical intervention for HTHS from 2002 to 2016. Fifteen patients (56%) completed outcome questionnaires: Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity (CISS) survey, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity Computer Adaptive Test, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pain Interference Computer Adaptive Test. The median questionnaire follow-up was 7.2 years (interquartile range, 3.1-9.9). Outcomes were compared across different surgical techniques, and the influence of patient-related factors on outcomes was also evaluated. Results: Six (40%) patients experienced complete symptom resolution, 6 (40%) had improvement without complete resolution, 1 (7%) had resolution followed by recurrence, and 2 (13%) reported no improvement. The most common symptom after surgical intervention was cold intolerance. Questionnaire scores were similar across ligation, direct repair, and vein graft vascular reconstruction. Patients had better CISS scores if they had surgery on their nondominant hand (13.2 vs 38.6) and did not have a manual labor job (18.1 vs 40.5). Conclusions: Surgery for HTHS leads to moderate long-term improvement in patient-reported outcomes. Different surgical techniques yield similar symptomatic relief. Manual labor and surgery of the dominant hand are associated with worse CISS scores.

[The Treatment of Aneurysms of the Extremities Arteries - a Systematic Overview - New Therapies for Isolated Iliac Artery Aneurysm Employing a New Classification]

Aneurysms of arteries in the extremities have a low incidence and are often manifest through complications. The most serious complications are rupture and extremity-threatening ischemia. Both usually lead to the diagnosis. Absolute indications for therapy are symptomatic aneurysms and asymptomatic aneurysms of 2 cm diameter or more. The extrailiacal gold standard is interponat or bypass with venous graft material. Endovascular methods are reserved for inoperable patients and clinical decisions on special cases. In contrast, complex endovascular techniques have been established in isolated iliac aneurysms and have significantly improved treatment options. Their implementation is bound to the existence of a suitable landing zone. This is the basis for a new classification of isolated iliac artery aneurysm. With the help of morphological subtypes, this classification permits standardised procedure planning for perfusion preservation of the internal iliac artery. The present article gives an overview of the current treatment strategy for aneurysms of extremities arteries. Similarities and regional differences in therapy are discussed.

Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome in an Elderly Caucasian Female: A Case Report

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a vascular disorder characterized by ulnar artery thrombosis or aneurysmal formation. It is most commonly reported in middle-aged males who suffer from repetitive trauma to the palm secondary to occupational or recreational activities. Most cases of HHS can be managed conservatively; however, surgical management is typically indicated for persistent symptoms following conservative measures, imminent vascular compromise, those who fail conservative treatment, or those in imminent danger of rupture. Here we present the case of a right-handed 74-year-old female with HHS who presented with a three-week history of a mass in the hypothenar eminence of the left hand. Reportedly, the mass had appeared slowly and had no associated pain, ischemia of the distal hand, numbness, paresthesia, or changes in the overlying skin. She denied any history of a blunt or penetrating hand injury. The patient was treated surgically by removing a 2.0-cm thrombosed pseudoaneurysm of a collateral branch of the ulnar artery within the left hypothenar eminence. On follow-ups at 1, 2, and 12 weeks postoperatively, the patient's pain was found to be well-controlled. Her normal range of motion was restored, and her digits remained neurovascularly intact. This was an atypical presentation of HHS, and our review of the disorder emphasizes the importance of diagnostic reasoning in rare conditions with unusual presentations of HHS.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: An uncommon cause of secondary syndrome and digital ischemia

Hypothenar hammer syndrome affects less than 1% of the population, but if the diagnosis is delayed, digital gangrene and critical ischemia can ensue. The condition is caused by injury to the ulnar artery at the level of the hook of hamate when the palm of the hand is repetitively used as a hammer. Injury includes segmental occlusion of the ulnar artery and aneurysmal formation with or without occlusion. Patients with hypothenar hammer syndrome often present with symptoms of secondary Raynaud syndrome; if Raynaud is unilateral, a vascular origin should be suspected and ruled out. Treatment options for hypothenar hammer syndrome include conservative treatment measures, fibrinolysis, or surgical resection and repair, and depend on the specific injury and timing of diagnosis.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: Case report and literature review

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare but serious cause of digital ischemia and morbidity. Presented here is a case of a manual laborer who had symptoms of digital ischemia after acute hyperextension injury to the ring finger. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed thrombosed ulnar artery aneurysm. Etiology, presentation, and current treatments are reviewed.

[Hypothenar hammer syndrome: A recurrent case report after surgery]

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare entity secondary to ulnar artery damage in the wrist, affecting mainly those exposed to repeated hand-palm trauma. Surgery is discussed in case of severe symptoms, resistant to medical treatment, and/or when anatomical lesions with emboligenic potential are demonstrated in the radiological exams. In this case, resection of the pathological zone with revascularization by autologous vein graft is the best option. We report the case of a 60-year-old patient who had a recurrence of symptoms more than 10 years after the completion of a surgical treatment. There was an aneurysmal thrombosed vein graft with extensive thrombus extending from the ulnar artery upstream of the Guyon's canal to the superficial palmar arch. The digital revascularization was provided by the radial superficial palmar arch and the presence of a collateral vascular supply. This late complication was responsible for compression of the ulnar nerve in Guyon's canal. A new surgery was performed consisting of the resection of the thrombosed zone, including the vein graft, without vascular reconstruction given the good vascularization of all the fingers, and release of the ulnar nerve to the wrist. The operative follow-up was uneventful with the disappearance of pain and sensory-motor deficits. Good digital vascularization was confirmed by imaging at 3 months postoperatively; nerve recovery by electromyogram at 6 months with normal conduction.

Firearm-related hypothenar hammer syndrome in a police officer

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is an uncommon condition that is associated with occupational repetitive injury to the hand. The commonly associated occupations include auto mechanics, machinists, miners, and butchers or occupations requiring the worker to use the hypothenar portion of the hand as a tool. Until now, there has never been a case report of HHS secondary to firearm use. In this report, we highlight a unique presentation of firearm-related HHS.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: A case of a late complication after surgery

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare condition secondary to ulnar artery damage in Guyon's canal, affecting mainly those exposed to repeated palm trauma. Surgery is discussed in cases of severe symptoms that are resistant to conservative treatment, and/or when anatomical lesions with high embolism potential are discovered during imaging exams. Resection of the pathological zone with revascularization by autologous vein graft is the best option. We report the case of a 60-year-old patient who had a recurrence of symptoms more than 10 years after this type of surgical treatment was performed. There was an aneurysmal thrombosed vein graft with extensive thrombus from the ulnar artery upstream to Guyon's canal to the superficial palmar arch. Finger revascularization was provided by the superficial branch of the radial artery and the presence of a collateral vascular supply. This late complication was responsible for compression of the ulnar nerve in Guyon's canal. A new surgery was performed to resect the thrombosed zone, including the vein graft, without vascular reconstruction due to the good vascularization of all the fingers, and to release the ulnar nerve at the wrist. The postoperative course was uneventful with the disappearance of pain and sensory-motor deficits. Good finger vascularization was confirmed by imaging at 3 months postoperative; nerve conduction was normal at 6 months on electroneuromyography.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: caused by a muscle anomaly? A case report with review of the literature

The hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare entity of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon. The blunt hypothenar trauma causes a lesion of the vessel wall with a consecutive thrombosis or aneurysm of the ulnar artery at the Guyon's canal. Different risk factors are discussed such as nicotine abuse, or a muscle anomaly in the Guyon's canal. To date, there are five case reports published about muscle anomalies and HHS. We present a case of a 51-year-old shipbuilder with a unilateral HHS on his right dominant hand with a bilateral muscle anomaly. We successfully treated the patient by resection of the aneurysm without a resection of the atypical muscle.

Management of Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome A Case Report

BACKGROUND Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a relatively rare disease process caused by repetitive stress or injury to the hypothenar eminence leading to chronic injury to the ulnar artery. This chronic stress (usually as a result of occupational or sport activities) may result in arterial constriction or thickening, which may lead to thrombosis or aneurysm formation. A review of current literature revealed that reports related to management of hypothenar hammer syndrome are limited. CASE REPORT A 33-year-old male without significant past medical history presented with left hand/digit pain, skin discoloration, and coolness of the hand/digits after a mechanical accident experienced 12 hours prior to presentation. Angiography confirmed reduced flow in the ulnar and radial artery with significant spasm of the ulnar artery. Treatment consisted of heparin, nitroglycerin, and papaverine with rapid resolution of symptoms. The patient was discharged on anticoagulation and a calcium channel blocker, with scheduled follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare disease process which manifests in certain occupations and activities that put undue stress on the hypothenar area. The use of angiography for definitive diagnosis and the use of anticoagulation and calcium channel blockers for treatment should continue to be studied to determine a standard treatment regimen.

Cutaneous Microembolism of Fingers and Toes

A macro vascular embolism is a well-known emergency. In contrast, cutaneous microembolism is a lesser known symptom. However, cutaneous microembolism of fingers and toes is a red flag symptom for vascular emergencies. The underlying cause may involve infectious, immunological, metabolic and physical disorders, coagulation disorders and malignancies. Early recognition can help to live safe.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: long-term follow-up after ulnar artery reconstruction with the lateral circumflex femoral artery

In symptomatic patients with hypothenar hammer syndrome, the occluded part of the ulnar artery can be reconstructed with an autologous graft. Venous grafts are used frequently, but they are known for their low patency rate. Arterial grafts show better patency rates than venous grafts in coronary bypass surgery. We performed 11 ulnar artery reconstructions with the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and compared these with previously performed venous reconstructions. All patients with an arterial graft reconstruction had a patent graft at a mean follow-up of 63 months. In addition, nine out of 11 patients reported improvement in their symptoms. The patency rate of venous reconstructions in hypothenar hammer syndrome is significantly lower. Arterial grafting for hypothenar hammer syndrome has superior patency compared with venous grafting; we recommend it as the surgical treatment of choice for symptomatic hypothenar hammer syndrome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Repetitive Blunt Trauma and Arterial Injury in the Hand

INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE

Arterial injury in the hand is most often due to repetitive blunt trauma. Although not always associated with significant impairment, it may cause serious ischemic damage or considerable disability. As a cause of digital ischemia, the frequency of this disorder is widely under appreciated. This study reviews the clinical and angiographic features of this condition.

MATERIALS/METHODS

An extensive literature review combined with the authors experience with arterial injury in the hand due to repetitive blunt hand trauma is summarized with emphasis on mechanisms of injury and pathologic changes to explain the angiographic findings and clinical presentations.

RESULTS

Angiographic findings are related to severity of injury and underlying changes in the arterial wall. The clinical presentation varies from asymptomatic to digital necrosis and gangrene, related to severity of arterial injury, collateral circulation, and the highly variable arterial anatomy in the hand.

CONCLUSION

Early recognition is important because compared to many other causes of digital ischemia in the upper extremities, traumatic arterial injury is frequently readily treatable. Angiographic findings and clinical presentation are often characteristic. The diagnosis should not be based on a clear history of repetitive hand trauma since the patient may be unaware of this occurrence.

Feasibility of imaging superficial palmar arch using micro-ultrasound, 7T and 3T magnetic resonance imaging

AIM

To demonstrate feasibility of vessel wall imaging of the superficial palmar arch using high frequency micro-ultrasound, 7T and 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Four subjects (ages 22-50 years) were scanned on a micro-ultrasound system with a 45-MHz transducer (Vevo 2100, VisualSonics). Subjects’ hands were then imaged on a 3T clinical MR scanner (Siemens Biograph MMR) using an 8-channel special purpose phased array carotid coil. Lastly, subjects’ hands were imaged on a 7T clinical MR scanner (Siemens Magnetom 7T Whole Body Scanner) using a custom built 8-channel transmit receive carotid coil. All three imaging modalities were subjectively analyzed for image quality and visualization of the vessel wall.

RESULTS

Results of this very preliminary study indicated that vessel wall imaging of the superficial palmar arch was feasible with a whole body 7T and 3T MRI in comparison with micro-ultrasound. Subjective analysis of image quality (1-5 scale, 1: poorest, 5: best) from B mode, ultrasound, 3T SPACE MRI and 7T SPACE MRI indicated that the image quality obtained at 7T was superior to both 3T MRI and micro-ultrasound. The 3D SPACE sequence at both 7T and 3T MRI with isotropic voxels allowed for multi-planar reformatting of images and allowed for less operator dependent results as compared to high frequency micro-ultrasound imaging. Although quantitative analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the three methods, the 7T Tesla trended to have better visibility of the vessel and its wall.

CONCLUSION

Imaging of smaller arteries at the 7T is feasible for evaluating atherosclerosis burden and may be of clinical relevance in multiple diseases.

Hand and Wrist Injuries in Boxing and the Martial Arts

Hand and wrist injuries in martial arts are typically a reflection of the combat nature of this discipline. In striking sports, the axial load mechanism of injury is common and causes fractures and dislocations; in grappling sports, sprain injuries and degenerative changes predominate. There is clear evidence to support that hand protection reduces the risk of hand injury. Traditional training in martial arts on proper technique and target selection in striking sports reduces the risk of hand injury, and is an important component of hand and wrist injury prevention.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome. A case report

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is an uncommon injury of the ulnar artery in its passage through Guyon's canal, and has been associated with repetitive trauma. Its diagnosis requires of a high level of suspicion and a careful clinical interview. The appropriate treatment is not well defined in the literature, ranging widely from medical treatment to reconstructive surgery. A clinical case is presented of a 52 year-old healthy male, who presented with numbness of his fourth and fifth fingers after a trauma at the hypothenar eminence. The Allen test highlighted an absence of vascularisation from the ulnar artery, thus suspecting an ulnar artery thrombosis, which was later confirmed by angio-MRI. The thrombosed segment was resected and a by-pass with a forearm vein was performed to reconstruct the distal arterial flow, presenting with a good functional outcome at 6months follow-up.

Recurrent Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: A Case Report

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare cause of digital ischemia and pain caused from repetitive trauma to the palm. Often related to occupational practices, thrombosis and embolization can occur. Treatment is often surgical and involves excision with or without reconstruction. We describe a 55 year-old, male pipe fitter previously diagnosed and treated for HHS with excision and repair using a reversed interpositional vein graft in the mid-1980's. He continued to work in the profession, which he regularly used his palm as a hammer and returned approximately 30 years later with recurrent symptoms of cold intolerance and pain. Angiography confirmed occlusion of the ulnar artery with emboli present distally. The patient was again treated with excision and reconstruction. HHS is an uncommon cause of digital ischemia. Its recurrence is even more rare. To our knowledge, this is the first described case of diagnosed and treated recurrent HHS.

Combined Thenar and Hypothenar Hammer Syndromes and Raynaud's Phenomenon Successfully Treated with Iloprost

Thenar and hypothenar hammer syndromes are uncommon conditions characterised by digital ischemia of the hand as a result of repetitive trauma at level of the thenar and/or hypothenar eminence and damage to the radial and/or ulnar arteries, respectively. The symptoms are related to the mechanism of the trauma and a Raynaud's phenomenon can be predominant for a long time. The angiography is the “gold standard” imaging technique which allows to confirm the diagnosis. Therapeutic strategy depends on the type of the lesion and severity of symptoms and includes pharmacological (antithrombotic and thrombolytic drugs) and surgical treatments. The authors present a case of a 53-year-old man, carpenter by profession, with combined thenar and hypothenar hammer syndromes and Raynaud's phenomenon, successfully treated with a short course of intravenous infusion of iloprost.

Unusual Cases of Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare occupational disease. The risk group of HHS is patient whose dominate hand used as a hammer. Our study report unusually cases in Chiang Mai University Hospital.

RESULT

19 year-old basketball player had right ulnar artery aneurysm for two months. After operation, his symptom was relieved and returned to play basketball again. 65 year-old housekeeper had non-dominated hand ulnar artery aneurysm for two years. After operation she still had hand claudication due to poor run-off vessel.

CONCLUSION

HHS is previously state in risk group. But from our report there was a risk in different occupation.

Hypothenar hammer syndrome: long-term results of vascular reconstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate long-term patency rates and related outcomes after vascular reconstruction of hypothenar hammer syndrome and identify patient- or treatment-related factors that may contribute to differences in outcome.

METHODS

We used color flow ultrasound to determine the patency of 18 vein graft reconstructions of the ulnar artery at the wrist in 16 patients. Validated questionnaires evaluated patients' functional disability with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, pain with the visual analog scale, and cold intolerance with the Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity survey. Patient demographics, clinical data, and surgical factors were analyzed for association with graft failure. Patients were asked to grade the result of treatment on a scale of 0 to 10.

RESULTS

Of 18 grafts, 14 (78%) were occluded at a mean of 118 months postoperatively. Patients with patent grafts had significantly less disability related to cold intolerance according to the Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity survey in addition to significantly less pain on the visual analog scale. There was no statistical difference in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores between patients with patent or occluded grafts. Patients graded the result significantly higher in patent reconstructions.

CONCLUSIONS

We noted a higher incidence of graft occlusion than previously reported at a mean follow-up of 9.8 years, which represents a long-duration follow-up study of surgical treatment of hypothenar hammer syndrome. Despite a high percentage of occlusion, overall, patients remained satisfied with low functional disability and all would recommend surgical reconstruction. This study suggests that improved outcomes may result from patent grafts in the long term.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic IV.

Vascular injuries in the upper extremity in athletes

Repetitive, high-stress, or high-impact arm motions can cause upper extremity arterial injuries. The increased functional range of the upper extremity causes increased stresses on the vascular structures. Muscle hypertrophy and fatigue-induced joint translation may incite impingement on critical neurovasculature and can cause vascular damage. A thorough evaluation is essential to establish the diagnosis in a timely fashion as presentation mimics more common musculoskeletal injuries. Conservative treatment includes equipment modification, motion analysis and adjustment, as well as equipment enhancement to limit exposure to blunt trauma or impingement. Surgical options include ligation, primary end-to-end anastomosis for small defects, and grafting.

Current options for treatment of hypothenar hammer syndrome

Hypothenar hammer syndrome is a rare vascular condition resulting from injury to the ulnar artery at the level of Guyon canal. The ulnar artery at the wrist is the most common site of arterial aneurysms of the upper extremity and is particularly prone to injury. Signs and symptoms include a palpable mass, distal digital embolization to long, ring, or small fingers, pain, cyanosis, pallor, coolness, and recurrent episodes of vasospasm. Modalities for diagnosis, evaluation, and surgical planning include duplex study, contrast arteriography, and computerized tomographic angiography (CTA). Management includes medical, nonoperative, or operative treatments. Appropriate treatment options are reviewed.

Ulnar tunnel syndrome

Ulnar neuropathy at or distal to the wrist, the so-called ulnar tunnel syndrome, is an uncommon but well-described condition. However, diagnosis of ulnar tunnel syndrome can be difficult. Paresthesias may be nonspecific or related to coexisting pathologies, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, C8-T1 radiculopathy, or peripheral neuropathy, which makes accurate diagnosis challenging. The advances in electrodiagnosis, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging have improved the diagnostic accuracy. This article offers an updated view of ulnar tunnel syndrome as well as its etiologies, diagnoses, and treatments.

Nailfold capillary patterns in healthy subjects: a real issue in capillaroscopy

Nailfold capillaroscopy has been extensively applied in a broad spectrum of pathologic conditions, but very few data have been published in healthy individuals. The aim of this study was to describe the nailfold capillary findings on a large series of healthy subjects using the video-capillaroscopy technique. Nailfold capillaries were studied based on their morphology, dimensions and density. Then, to evaluate jointly the association between different capillary findings in groups of subjects which were homogeneous for their characteristics, cluster analysis was performed. The results (median) of capillary measurements were as follows: loop length 207μm, external diameter 39μm, internal diameter 17μm, apical diameter 17μm, and intercapillary distance 143μm. Based on the cluster analysis three major "normal" morphologic capillaroscopic patterns were depicted: 1) the "normal" pattern mainly with 2 to 5 U-shaped loops/mm and ≤2 tortuous loops/mm; 2) the "perfect normal" pattern with ≥5 U-shaped loops/mm and 3) the "unusual normal" with at least 1 meandering or bushy loop, or at least 1 microhemorrhage, or with >4 crossed loops/mm. Regarding the loop measurements, the majority of subjects had a median of 7capillaries/mm with a median length of 198μm.