HYPOTHENAR HAMMER SYNDROME - AN UNCOMMON CAUSE OF DIGITAL ISCHEMIA

Unilateral digital ischemia may occur as a result of repetitive use of the hypothenar eminence as a hammer, with resultant damage to the wal l of the ulnar artery and the superficial palmar arch. Secondary throm bus formation from intimal damage and potential embolization may cause signs and symptoms of arterial insufficiency in the second through fi fth digits. Three automobile mechanics with unilateral ischemia caused by hypothenar hammer syndrome are described. All three patients had i mprovement with conservative treatment and continued to work with only minimal disability.