Fracture of the neck of fifth metacarpal occurs in
**Core Concept**
A fracture of the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone is a common injury in individuals who participate in sports or activities involving punching, such as boxing. This type of fracture occurs due to the transmission of force from the fist to the metacarpal bone, causing a break at the neck of the bone.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Boxer's fracture, also known as a metacarpal neck fracture, is a specific type of fracture that occurs at the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone. This injury is typically caused by a direct blow to the metacarpal bone, such as from punching a hard surface or another person's fist. The force of the impact causes a break in the bone, leading to a fracture. The fifth metacarpal bone is more susceptible to this type of fracture due to its relatively small size and the fact that it is the longest bone in the hand.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Hangman's fracture is a type of fracture that occurs in the cervical spine (neck), specifically at the C2 vertebra. It is not related to the metacarpal bones in the hand.
**Option B:** Jefferson's fracture is another type of cervical spine fracture, occurring at the C1 vertebra. Like hangman's fracture, it is not related to the metacarpal bones.
**Option C:** Greenstick fracture is a type of fracture that occurs in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks rather than breaking completely. While greenstick fractures can occur in the metacarpal bones, they are not specifically referred to as boxer's fractures.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Boxer's fracture is often associated with a deformity of the metacarpal bone, which can lead to a noticeable "boxer's bump" on the back of the hand. This deformity can be a key clinical finding in patients presenting with a history of punching or trauma to the hand.
**Correct Answer Line**
✓ Correct Answer: D. Boxer's fracture