Stainless Steel 2.0-mm Locking Compression Plate Osteosynthesis System for the Fixation of Comminuted Hand Fractures in Asian Adults

Abstract

Objective The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse the clinical outcome of the application of stainless steel 2.0-mm locking compression plate (LCP) system for the treatment of comminuted hand fractures in Asian adults. Methods Six patients who had comminuted hand fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with the application of stainless steel 2.0-mm LCP (AO Compact Hand System; Synthes, Oberdorf, Switzerland) from December 2009 to October 2010. The total arc of motion of fingers, grip power, complications, and additional surgery were recorded. Results Three out of six patients eventually restored good hand functions in terms of the total arc of finger motion (>220°) and grip power. The commonest complication was skin impingement in finger region by the implant (4 cases). Another common complication was restricted range of motion (3 cases). One patient had minimal degree of malrotation of his left little finger. Additional surgery was required in all the patients for implant removal (6 cases), tenolysis (3 cases), and capsulotomy (2 cases). Conclusions The stainless steel 2.0-mm LCP is useful for the fixation of unstable comminuted hand fractures, especially in metacarpal bones, because of its advantage of better stability, which allows more aggressive rehabilitation. However, its design is not very versatile and, therefore, limits its use in the finger region. Its bulkiness frequently causes implant impingement. The patients must be informed about the chance of implant removal later.