Hypothenar hammer syndrome

Abstract
Recurrent blunt trauma to the palm of the hand may result in trauma to the ulnar artery. The combination of signs and symptoms of ischaemia of the hands and fingers secondary to recurrent trauma has been termed the hypothenar hammer syndrome. Constant striking of the hypothenar eminence hammers the distal ulnar artery and its superficial palmar branch against the hook of the hamate bone. Pathologically this will result in arterial spasm, thrombosis or aneurysm formation. The syndrome was first described by Conn et al. (1970), who noted the relationship with occupational trauma in their series of 11 patients. We have recently encountered two further cases which illustrate the typical appearances and value of arteriography in this condition.

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