Of nine ununited fractures of the hook of the hamate, eight were treated
by surgical excision of the fragment. All eight patients had relief from
persistent pain and regained the preinjury level of function. This fracture
occurs frequently in athletes and is often not diagnosed because it can be
demonstrated only by special roentgenographic views. It is concluded that
this fracture may be less rare than is commonly believed and that surgical
excision permits early return of function, especially in athletes and
laborers who must be able to grip hard objects strongly.