Causes / typical injury mechanism: Hook of hamate fracture is a trauma injury or an overuse injury.

Classic history and presentation: Typical history includes either a direct blow to the hook of the hamate or repetitive microtrauma from gripping activities in athletes. This may also present as a chronic injury.

Prevalence: Hook of hamate fractures account for approximately 2%-4% of carpal fractures.

Risk factors: Recent trauma or participation in sports requiring gripping a racket or bat.

Pathophysiology: This fracture can be caused by a direct blow to the hypothenar eminence, repetitive microtrauma from gripping bats or rackets in athletes, or indirect shearing force from extrinsic flexor tendons of the ring and small fingers.

Grade / classification system: Hook of hamate fractures can be classified according to the anatomic location within the hook: base, waist, or avulsion, although this classification does not typically determine treatment or prognosis.