Treatment of old fracture-dislocation of proximal interphalangeal joint using a pins-rubber distraction external fixator

Abstract

Objective To discuss the clinical outcomes of old fracture-dislocation of proximal interphalangeal joint treated with a self-made distraction external fixator which consists of 3 pins and rubbers.Methods From March 2005 to August 2011,8 cases of old fracture-dislocation of proximal interphalangeal joint treated with a pins-rubber distraction external fixator were retrospectively reviewed.There were 6 males and 2 females,aged from 17 to 58 years,averaged 23.2 years.The middle finger was involved in 5 cases and ring finger was involved in 3 cases.The right hand was affected in six patients,and the left hand was affectd in two patients.The mechanism of injury was sports injury in 6 cases,traffic injuries in 1,and sprain in 1.All of the cases were closed injury.The mean time from injury to surgery was 58 d (range,45-90 d).According to Schenck classification of the proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocation,there were 4 cases of type Ⅰ,3 of type Ⅱ,I of type Ⅲ.Based on the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) for subjective hand function score,the average preoperative score was 56; the range of motion of proximal interphalangeal joint was 0°.Grip strength was 60％-80％ of the contralateral hand.Results The follow-up lasted 6-51 months,with a mean period of 20.5 months.Solid bone healing was eventually achieved in all patients.The average healing period was 3 months (range,2-5 months).The mean normalized MHQ score was 88 (range,84-92).Grip strength was 85％-100％ of the contralateral hand.Extension of proximal interphalangeal joint was -10°-0° (average,-5°).Flexion angle was 75°-100° (average,89.4°).Postoperative complications included slight joint space narrowing (2 cases),joint incongruity (＜ 1 mm) (2 cases) and fusiform arthrocele (2 cases).No infection,pin loosening,and pin breakage was encounted.Conclusion A pins-rubber distraction external fixator is a minimally invasive,reliable and effective treatment for old fracture-dislocation of proximal interphalangeal joint. Key words: Finger joint; Fractures; Dislocations; External fixators