Document Type

Open Access Presentation

Publication Date

Spring 4-10-2026

Abstract

The most common hand fracture occurs in the fifth metacarpal, and is known as a “boxer’s fracture.” These fractures typically result from direct trauma from punching an object with a closed fist, falls, or motor vehicle accidents. Boxer’s fractures are diagnosed using X-rays to confirm the injury and assess severity. However, extensive bruising and tissue swelling often hides the characteristic depression of the metacarpal head, making clinical evaluation challenging. This project aims to create a low-cost, 3D-printed hand model featuring a boxer’s fracture that can be molded and X-rayed. The model will provide medical students and professionals with an affordable tool for hands-on orthopedic training and diagnostic practice. An anatomically accurate human hand was modeled in Blender software. The fracture was then added using a Boolean modifier. The model was imported into Bambu Studio, scaled to average adult hand dimensions, and printed with PLA filament on a Bambu Lab H2D printer. This was chosen for its low cost ($1.47 per model) and suitability as an educational tool for learners. Future directions include encasing the models into silicone molds to replicate identical copies for repeatable x-ray practice, while providing additional refinement of the design to enhance radiographic abilities and realism.

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