Average Total Active Motion Research Articles

Closed Reduction Percutaneous Pinning Versus Open Reduction With Plate and Screw Fixation in Management of Unstable Proximal Phalangeal Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Proximal phalanx fractures are common, with surgical fixation indicated for unstable fractures. Traditionally, closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) resulted in decreased stiffness and tendon irritation compared to open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). We hypothesized that more recent studies would have more similar outcomes to CRPP. The purpose of this study was to compare CRPP and ORIF in terms of range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and complications. Four electronic databases were queried from 2010 to present. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, two independent reviewers performed a two-step review process to identify relevant articles. Patient demographics, total active motion (TAM), DASH, and complications were extracted. The methodological quality of each study included was assessed independently. Meta-analysis was performed for comparative trials. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria including four comparative studies: Thirteen studies included TAM. The weighted average TAM was 228 ± 34° for CRPP and 223 ± 32° for ORIF (P = .07 with 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.5 to 10.5). Seven studies evaluated DASH scores; weighted average was 8.2 ± 8.9 for CRPP and 11.7 ± 6.5 for ORIF (P < .01 with 95% CI, 1.8-5.2). Two studies directly compared CRPP to ORIF, favoring ORIF for both TAM with d = 1.07 and DASH with d = 0.23. Rates of tenolysis or hardware removal were higher for ORIF (P < .01). New literature suggests more equipoise with regard to treatment of proximal phalanx fracture with CRPP versus ORIF. Meta-analysis, Level II.

Wide-Awake Approach for Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tendon Transfer Followed by Early Active Mobilization.

Background The standard clinical practice to treat closed ruptures of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendons includes free tendon grafting; however, it is not suitable when the muscle amplitude of the ruptured FDP is not sufficient. We report outcomes of six patients who underwent flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon transfer of the ring finger using the wide-awake approach to repair the closed rupture of the FDP tendon of the little finger in zone 3 or 4. Methods The patients were identified by reviewing our institutional billing records from January 2012 to October 2019 for the International Classification of Disease 10 code M66.3 that describes the diagnosis as “spontaneous rupture of flexor tendons.” Results The patients comprised two men and four women with an average age of 72.2 years (standard deviation [SD], 8.4 years). All patients were hospitalized after surgery to undergo early active mobilization. The average total active motion at the final evaluation was 201.8° (range: 85–248°). According to Strickland’s criteria, outcomes were excellent for two, good for three, and poor for one patient. No patients complained about the ring finger. Conclusion These results suggest that FDS tendon transfer is recommended when the muscle amplitude of the ruptured FDP is insufficient. We believe that the wide-awake approach and early active mobilization may contribute to satisfactory outcomes.

Anatomic Repair of the Central Slip with Anchor Suture Augmentation for Treatment of Established Boutonniere Deformity

BackgroudThe rupture of the central slip of an extensor tendon of a finger causes a boutonniere (or buttonhole) deformity, characterized by pathologic flexion at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint and hyperextension at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. Currently, there are no standard treatment guidelines for this deformity. This study aimed to report clinical results of surgery to correct chronic boutonniere deformity.MethodsThis retrospective case series was conducted between January 2010 and December 2018 and only 13 patients with trauma-induced chronic deformity were included. After excision of elongated scar tissue, a direct anatomic end-to-end repair using a loop suture technique with supplemental suture anchor augmentation was conducted. Total active motion was assessed before and after surgery and self-satisfaction scores were collected from phone surveys.ResultsAll patients presented with Burton stage I deformities defined as supple and passively correctable joints. The initial mean extension lag of the PIP joint (43.5°) was improved by an average of 21.9° at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean hyperextension of the DIP joint averaged 19.2° and improved by 0.8° flexion contracture (p < 0.001). The average total active motion was 220.4° (range, 160°–260°). Based on the Souter's criteria, 69.2% (9/13) of the patients had good results. Only 1 patient reported fair outcome and 23.1% (3/13) reported poor outcome. The average Strickland formula score was 70 (range, 28.6–97.1). In total, 10 patients (77%) had excellent or good results. Of 10 patients contacted by phone, self-reported satisfaction score was very satisfied in 2, satisfied in 3, average in 3, poor in 1, and very poor in 1. Three patients reported a relapse of the deformity during range of motion exercises, 1 of whom underwent revision surgery. One patient complained of PIP joint flexion limitation, and 2 complained of DIP joint flexion limitation at final follow-up.ConclusionsIn chronic boutonniere deformity, central slip reconstruction with anchor suture augmentation can be an easily applicable surgical option, which offers fair to excellent outcome in 77% of the cases. The risk of residual extension lag and recurrence of deformity should be discussed prior to surgery.

Functional Outcome Following Hand and Wrist Level Replantation: A Retrospective Review

Objective: Amputations of fingers and significant parts of upper limbs are common following industrial injuries. This study was aimed at assessing the functional outcome in patients with hand replantation following amputation at the level of distal forearm or wrist. Methods: Patients presenting with amputation at the level of wrist and forearm between Jan 2015 and December 1018, with adequate follow up were included. The function in terms of total active motion at the fingers and wrist, sensory recovery, and patient satisfaction and DASH scores at the final follow up were noted. Results: Four cases of replantation at the level of wrist and one replantation at distal forearm level were included in the study. A total of 3 patients were excluded for various reasons. The average follow-up period was 38 months. The average total active motion of fingers achieved was 212○ . All patients recovered protective sensations. Conclusion: Replantation of amputated major upper limb parts restores useful function and should be attempted. Minimizing ischaemia time, secure fixation, primary repair of structures and early motion are determinants of reasonable functional outcome. Level of evidence: IV.

Functional evaluation following emergency arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint for complex fractures with silicone implant

The proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is particularly vulnerable to trauma. In comminuted fractures, arthroplasty with a silicone implant is a treatment option that may be controversial in an emergency setting. This joint destruction is usually accompanied by soft tissue injuries (skin and tendon damage, devascularization) making the reconstruction all the more complex. The aim of our work was to evaluate emergency finger silicone implants for complex and comminuted fractures of the PIP joint as well as clinical and radiological complications. In this single-center, retrospective study, 13 patients operated between January 2007 and January 2019 on an emergency basis with a Neuflex® PIP arthroplasty were reviewed. This PIP joint reconstruction was associated with the soft tissue repair at the same time (skin cover, tendons, nerves) in all patients. The average age was 57.7 years with a male predominance (92%). The injuries were caused by a domestic accident in 61% of cases. The average follow-up was 4.7 years. The average total active motion arc was 183.8°. The average QuickDASH score was 24. There was one case of broken implant with no functional consequence. No infection or instability was reported. Silicone implant arthroplasty is a simple, reliable, fast, and durable solution for complex PIP fractures when conservative treatment is impossible. This solution is an alternative to arthrodesis or even finger amputation.

Outcomes Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in Proximal Phalangeal Fracture with Rotational Malalignment.

Background: The rotational malalignment in proximal phalanx fracture is unacceptable. Authors attempted to describe clinical and radiographic outcomes as well as complications after open reduction and internal fixation with screw only or plate for phalangeal fractures accompanied by rotational malalignment. Methods: Authors conducted a retrospective review of 46 patients who had been treated between Jan. 2010 and Dec. 2016. The average follow-up period was 16.7 months. A total active motion (TAM), Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH), and tip pinch power between thumb and fractured finger were measured at the final follow-up. Complications were investigated during the follow up. We assessed the amount of rotation by measuring angle between 3rd ray and fractured finger. The measurement was divided into two groups depending on rotation direction, divergent and convergent direction group. Results: Twenty-eight cases were fixed with mini LCP plate, 12 cases with lag screws, and rest 6 cases with combined. All patients showed solid bony union on radiographs on average follow-up of 68 days (range, 41-157 days). Average TAM of the injured finger was 244 degrees and average DASH score was 4.9 at the last follow-up. Tip pinch power was 3.2 kg, which was not significantly different from that of the contralateral side at 3.4 kg (p = 0.21). The preexisting rotational angle was significantly adjusted (overall, 11.1°). Depending on rotation direction, preoperative 21.7° to postoperative 12.1° in 27 patients of convergent group and preoperative -5.0° to postoperative 8.3° in 19 patients of divergent group were achieved. Conclusions: The rotation from proximal phalanx fractures could be corrected with anatomic reduction by open reduction. Our results showed that open reduction and rigid internal fixation after physical examination for acute proximal phalanx fractures accompanied by rotational malalignment could achieve good clinical results.

Distal Finger Reconstruction by Bilateral Lateral Hallux Osteo-onychocutaneous Free Flap.

In this report, we present our experience on the use of bilateral lateral hallux osteo-onychocutaneous free flaps for reconstruction of distal finger and the aesthetic and functional results of this technique in a series of cases. From February 2005 to May 2015, 7 patients underwent finger reconstruction distal to the distal interphalangeal joint using the bilateral lateral hallux osteo-onychocutaneous free flaps. The mean age was 29.3 years (range, 24-33 years). The lateral hallux osteo-onychocutaneous flaps were harvested from bilateral donor sites. The size of each flap was designed based on the size of half distal finger defect. The lateral hallux osteo-onychocutaneous free flaps from both donor sites were combined to reconstruct the distal finger. More than 50% of hallux nail was preserved in each of donor sites, which was covered with a local flap. All flaps used for reconstruction survived without complications after surgery. The average length of follow-up was 93.4 months (range, 16-163 months). All reconstructed distal fingers showed good aesthetic appearance, except one that underwent a secondary debulking procedure. The average total active motion of the finger was 215.7 degrees (range, 200-230 degrees). Neither pain nor numbness sensation in the reconstructed fingers was complained by the patients. The donor site morbidity was minimal. All patients had pain-free and good function outcome in both feet. The use of the bilateral lateral hallux osteo-onychocutaneous free flaps may provide an option for distal finger reconstruction with satisfactory function and anesthetic outcomes with minimal hallux donor site morbidity.

Therapeutic management of closed central slip injuries: Outcome of a service evaluation

Introduction Closed central slip injuries can be difficult to manage and there is a lack of published research to support evidence-based clinical decision making in practice. This article presents the results of a service review in a busy trauma hospital hand therapy department. Method Following a literature review and retrospective review of outcomes, new clinical guidelines for central slip injuries were developed. These were implemented with 22 patients referred to hand therapy for conservative management of closed central slip injuries during a one-year period. Results The majority of patients (72%) had either an excellent or good outcome using the Strickland-Glogovac outcome measure and an average total active motion of 90% compared to their unaffected hand. Conclusions The outcomes following implementation of new treatment guidelines following the service review are in line with the small amount of published data currently available. They provide detailed guidelines for the conservative management of closed central slip injuries in a busy out-patient setting.

Antegrade Percutaneous Intramedullary Fixation Technique for Metacarpal Fractures: Prospective Study on 150 Cases.

The aim of our study was to assess the results of antegrade percutaneous intramedullary Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation, for the treatment of unstable displaced metacarpal fractures in a large number of cases, in order to support the usage of this mini-invasive technique in the largest variety of fractures as possible. Every patient meeting the inclusion criteria was treated with closed reduction and antegrade intramedullary fixation with 1 or 2 K-wire from January 2013. A total of 150 patients with 165 metacarpal fractures were evaluated until February 2016. Average follow-up duration was 10 weeks. The clinical outcome was assessed by the total active motion of the digit, presence of rotational deformity, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Q-DASH) score, and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) score. The radiographic outcome was assessed by evaluating the dorsal angulation and shortening of the metacarpal, comparing the postoperative radiography and the first radiography showing fracture healing. Comparing the injured and contralateral digit average total active motion after 10 weeks from surgery, no statistical significance emerged. No patient developed extensor tendon irritation, so that there was no need to perform tenolysis, ever. The average Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 12.3 (range, 0 to 37). The average Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation score was 19 (range, 0 to 41). Fracture union was steadily achieved. Radiographic assessment showed a nonsignificant postoperative loss of reduction. Antegrade intramedullary K-wire fixation technique is valid, reproducible, cheap, and perfectly suited to the treatment of metacarpal fractures requiring surgery, providing immediate mobilization and excellent outcomes for a very wide variety of fractures.

Clinical Outcomes of Explosion Injuries to the Hand.

The purpose of this study is to report clinical outcomes in a cohort of 12 patients with explosion injuries to the hand. Twelve male patients with a mean age of 42.4 years (SD, 7.2) were examined at a mean of 54 months after sustaining explosion injuries to the hand. All patients underwent primary reconstruction and early soft tissue coverage within 72 hours after their injuries. Total active range of motion and moving 2-point discrimination in each digit were recorded along with hand injury severity score (HISS), disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, and American Medical Association (AMA) impairment ratings. For digits saved, the average total active motion at final follow-up was 215 degrees (SD, 66.5). Twenty-two digits had 6-mm 2-point discrimination, and 17 digits had 8- to 10-mm 2-point discrimination. Eight of the 12 patients had secondary procedures. We found a strong correlation between initial HISS and DASH scores at final follow-up. There was also a strong correlation between AMA impairment rating and DASH scores. Early reconstruction provides protective sensation and preserves some function after explosion injuries. Preoperative HISS correlates with the long-term functional outcome as measured by DASH scores. For this group of patients, postinjury AMA impairment ratings also correlate with functional outcomes for the upper extremity.

Early Results of Surgical Management of Camptodactyly.

We hypothesize that surgery for moderate-to-severe camptodactyly (>50 degrees) results in modest gains in range of motion and improved digital position. A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing surgery for camptodactyly at a tertiary children's hospital between 2000 and 2014 was performed. Surgery was indicated for patients with persistent, functionally limiting flexion contractures despite observation, therapy, and splinting. Data were collected on demographics, clinical history and presentation, nonoperative management, surgery, and clinical follow-up, focusing on range of motion at the involved joint. Total passive motion (TPM) and total active motion (TAM) at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint was calculated at presentation, preoperative visit, first postoperative visit out of the cast, and last follow-up visit. Average postoperative follow-up was 1.4 years. In total, 31 digits in 22 patients were reviewed. There were 13 males; average age at surgery was 9.6 years. There were 7 type I (infantile), 8 type II (adolescent), and 7 type III (syndromic) patients. All cases involved the PIP joint; 55% involved the small finger. All patients underwent sequential release of contracted structures until maximal extension without compromising vascularity or joint stability was obtained. Z-plasty of the volar skin was performed in 68% of digits, flexor digitorum superficialis tenotomy in 77%, volar plate release in 58%, and collateral ligament release in 48%. All patients were casted postoperatively for an average of 31 days, and 71% of digits had temporary transarticular pin fixation. At initial presentation, mean TPM and TAM were 34 and 24 degrees, respectively. TPM and TAM were 32 and 19 degrees immediately preoperatively, 30 and 13 at the first postoperative visit, and 35 and 25 at the final follow-up. Furthermore, the position of PIP arc of motion was in a more extended position postoperatively. Average TPM arc of motion was from 50 to 82 degrees preoperatively and 28 to 63 degrees at final follow-up; average TAM arc of motion was 62 to 81 degrees preoperatively and 30 to 55 degrees at final follow-up. There were no clinically meaningful differences in results based on camptodactyly type, preoperative motion, or age at surgery. There were no cases of wound infection or dehiscence. Two patients with recurrent contractures opted for subsequent PIP arthrodesis. Total motion of the PIP joint was similar both preoperatively and postoperatively following surgical release of camptodactyly. However postoperatively, the digit was in a more extended position over this arc of motion. For patients with functionally limiting flexion contractures, surgical release may be beneficial by providing a more extended position, for improved digital release, hygiene, and esthetics. Level IV.

The Impairments and Functional Outcomes of Patients Post Flexor Tendon Repair of the Hand

Backgrounds: Flexor tendon injuries are common hand injuries for which optimal surgical and postoperative treatment has not yet been established. The variability in results is great, with good outcomes being achieved in specialized hands units in developed countries. Minimal research has been undertaken in developing countries, in particular South Africa, regarding flexor tendon repair (FTR) and the outcomes thereof. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to establish the range of movement (ROM), grip strength, and hand function at 6 months post FTR as well as to determine the factors that affect the impairments and functional outcome at 6 months post FTR. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in South Africa. At 1, 3, and 6 months post FTR, the ROM of the injured and contralateral finger(s) were measured using a finger goniometer. The Total Active Motion (TAM) classification system was applied to each affected digit, and the average TAM was determined for the participants’ affected hand. At 3 and 6 months post FTR, the participants’ bilateral power and pinch grip strength were measured using a Jamar dynamometer and a pinch meter. The power and pinch grip strengths were calculated as a percentage of the unaffected hand. At 3 and 6 months post FTR, participants performed the Jebsen Hand Function Test (JHFT), and a Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire was administered in an interview format. Results: A total of 126 participants enrolled in the study. There was a dropout rate of 48%, leaving 65 participants who completed 6 months follow-up, 41 males (63%) and 24 females (37%) aged 32 years (SD ± 12, n = 65). Out of 65 participants, 2% (n = 1) had an excellent outcome, 32% (n = 21) had a good outcome, 32% (n = 21) had a fair outcome, and 34% (n = 22) had a poor outcome with regard to TAM. At 6 months post FTR, the average power grip was 60% (SD ± 25, n = 65) of the unaffected hand while the average pinch grip was 52% (SD ± 42, n = 65) of the unaffected hand. The average score on the QuickDASH questionnaire was 19.34 (SD ± 16.89) at 6 months. Of the 41 participants who were employed prior to injury, 71% (n = 29) had returned to work by 6 months post surgery and scored an average of 15.89 (SD ± 23.74) on the QuickDASH work module. Sixty-eight percent (n = 44) of the patients had postoperative complications: the most common complication was tenodesis/adhesions (25%, n = 16), followed by contracture (22%, n = 14). There were only 4 ruptures (6%, n = 4) in this sample. Eleven participants (17%) underwent further surgery. The factors that affect the impairments and functional outcome at 6 months post FTR include age, zone of injury, number of digits injured, associated injury, delay between injury and surgery, and language barrier. Conclusion: Although there were some promising outcomes, during this period, participants did not consistently achieve the good or excellent functional outcomes achieved in developed countries. More research needs to be conducted regarding the outcome of FTR in South Africa, particularly in the public sector.

Comparison of the Outcomes of 2 Rehabilitation Protocols After Flexor Tendon Repair of the Hand at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa

Background: Flexor tendon repair of the hand and the rehabilitation thereof are commonly discussed between hand surgeons and therapists. There are many patients in public hospitals in South Africa who require this surgery. They are regularly sent to the therapists for rehabilitation, using the early passive motion protocol. Although the early active motion protocol has yielded improved results globally, there is limited evidence on the comparison of the outcomes of these 2 protocols in the South African context. This study was implemented to compare the outcomes of these 2 protocols in a large public hospital post flexor tendon repair. Methods: Patients (n = 46) who sustained a zone II-IV flexor tendon injury were recruited for the study and equally distributed between the 2 groups (early active motion and early passive motion). Out of these participants, 11 did not return for the initial assessment at 4 weeks post surgery and were therefore excluded. There were 19 participants in the early active motion group and 16 participants in the early passive motion group. Results were collected and classified at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post surgery. The collection of data commenced in December 2014 and was completed in January 2016. Results: The results of the study included total active motion and tip to crease and tip to table measurements of the injured and uninjured fingers. At 12 weeks post surgery, the average total active motion of the injured fingers was similar between the early active and early passive motion protocols (57.46%, 61.00%, respectively). Tip to crease and tip to table measurements were also similar between the 2 groups. In terms of patient compliance, 52.17% of participants removed their splints in the initial 4-week period, and 56.52% carried out the prescribed exercises correctly. Tendon rupture occurred in 8.57% (n = 3, early active motion = 5.71%, early passive motion = 2.86%) of patients. Conclusion: There has been a global trend toward the use of an early active motion protocol post flexor tendon repair. This study found that there was no difference in outcomes between the 2 groups. Therefore, either protocol could be implemented in South African public hospitals. However, because the early active motion protocol takes less time to implement, this protocol is recommended. A larger study would be necessary to determine a significant comparison between the 2 groups; however, this is challenging due to poor patient compliance.

Passive mobilization for restoring hand function after surgical flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair

Objective To explore the effects of early active mobilization on hand function after zone 5 flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair. Methods Fifty-five patients who had received primary repair in zone 5 of a flexor tendon and the ulnar nerve were randomly divided into an observation group (26 cases, 88 digits) and a control group (27 cases, 91 digits). Both groups were given routine treatment after the operation, and started to do active and passive exercise 4 weeks later. The observation group was additionally forced to do active range of motion exercise training starting 8 days after the operation. Twelve weeks after the operation, the hand function of both groups was assessed using the total active motion (TAM) scoring system of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, peripheral nerve function evaluation and the disabilities of arm-shoulder-hand (DASH) scale. Results At the end of the treatment, the average TAM score of the observation group was significantly better than that of the control group. The average active movement range of the wrist in palm flexion, dorsal extension, ulnar deviation and in radial deviation were all significantly better than in the control group. Grip strength, overall hand function and DASH score were also significantly better on average. Conclusion Early active mobilization following flexor tendon and ulnar nerve repair can effectively promote the recovery of hand function. Key words: Flexor tendons; Ulnar nerve; Rehabilitation; Active mobilization

Free multilobed posterior interosseous artery perforator flap for multi-finger skin defect reconstruction

The posterior interosseous artery (PIA) perforator flap can be used for reconstruction of soft-tissue defects of fingers. Based on the multiple perforators from the posterior interosseous artery, we describe a technique to reconstruct the multi-finger defect in the use of the free multilobed PIA perforator flap. PIA perforators from different areas of the forearm were used to design a free multilobed skin paddle for multi-finger skin defect reconstruction. Each paddle without the deep fascia had separate perforators. To increase the perforator pedicle length, the courses of the PIA perforators were dissected from the superficial layer of the deep fascia to the subcutaneous layer. The flap was raised as a unilateral free bilobed PIA perforator flap in 10 cases of two-finger defects, a free trilobed PIA perforator flap in two cases of three-finger defects, and a bilateral free bilobed PIA perforator flap in one case of four-finger defects. The average effective vascular pedicle length and trunk pedicle length were 8.3 and 3.1cm, respectively, for the bilobed flap, and 6.3 and 4.0cm, respectively, for the trilobed flap. All flaps survived except one paddle with tip necrosis. At 10.8 months (range, 4-27 months) after surgery, 10 cases showed satisfactory cosmetic appearance, while the fingers were bulky in the remaining three cases. The average score of static two-point discrimination in 10 innervated paddles was 12.9mm. The remaining 20 paddles recovered only protective sensation. The average total active motion (TAM) of each finger was 164° before surgery and 187° at the latest follow-up. Free multilobed PIA perforator flap is a good candidate for reconstruction of multi-finger skin defect. Therapeutic, Ⅳ.

Operative treatment of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures in athletes: early return to play

Background Evaluating the outcomes of operative treatment for metacarpal and phalangeal fractures in athletes returning early to play and discussing the more effective methods that permit rapid early return to athletic activity.Methods We retrospectively identified a total of 105 metacarpal or phalangeal fractures in 105 athletes with conservative or operative treatment in our department. Of these, 20 athletes required an early return to sport because of a pending important game in their competition within 1 month after injury. Therefore, they underwent surgical treatment with open reduction and internal fixation of metacarpal or phalangeal fractures in an attempt to achieve an early return to their chosen sport at their usual competitive level. The patients included 6 rugby football players, 2 soccer goalkeepers, 3 American football players, 3 handball players, 2 baseball players and 4 who participated in other sports. The clinical records of preoperative and postoperative radiographs were available for all patients, and clinical outcome was evaluated by total active motion (TAM).Results The patients were followed up for a mean of 27 (24–43) months. At the latest follow-up examination, bone union was obtained in all cases. In cases with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures, the average TAM was 263° (range 240°–270°).Conclusion We consider that an early comeback to training and competition can be permitted exclusively for patients with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. It is important for the attending physician to administer such treatment after obtaining informed consent and develop a trusting relationship with the patient and other related individuals while paying attention to their hope of quick recovery.

Results of Replantation of 33 Ring Avulsion Amputations

Despite microsurgical advances, it is still difficult to achieve satisfactory functional results in cases of replantations following complete ring avulsion amputations. Our aim is to report the experience we have collected since the early 1990s in the treatment of this type of injury. We replanted 33 fingers on 33 patients (age, 15-54 y) with complete ring avulsion amputation injuries. Twenty-eight amputations were distal to the insertion of the flexor digitorum superficialis, and 5 were complete degloving injuries with intact tendons. Vascular transpositions and vein grafts were used, and in all cases, only 1 of the digital nerves was repaired. The 29 successful cases were tracked over an average follow-up of 89 months. The average total active motion of the reconstructed finger was 185°. Sensibility evaluated by static 2-point discrimination varied from 9 to 15 mm and by moving 2-point discrimination from 8 to 15 mm. Five patients complained of cold intolerance. Resection of the avulsed digital artery and vein is the most crucial part of the procedure.Vessels reconstruction can be performed using various methods, but vessel transfers from the middle finger appear to be the most reliable solution. The outcome of the cases demonstrates that replantation should be attempted. Therapeutic IV.

Modified retrograde percutaneous intramedullary multiple Kirschner wire fixation for treatment of unstable displaced metacarpal neck and shaft fractures

The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the functional and radiographic outcomes of our new surgical technique, retrograde percutaneous intramedullary multiple Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation, for the treatment of unstable displaced metacarpal neck or shaft fractures. Between March 2005 and April 2010, 56 consecutive patients with 65 metacarpal fractures were treated with closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary fixation with at least 2 K-wires. The average follow-up duration was 13 months. The clinical outcome was assessed by the total active motion (TAM) of the digit, presence of rotational deformity, grip strength, patient satisfaction, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score. The radiographic outcome was assessed by the time to union, dorsal angulation, and shortening. The average operating time was 11 min (range, 6-17 min) for isolated single metacarpal fractures and 18 min (range, 13-25 min) for isolated simultaneous 2-metacarpal fractures. There was no significant difference in the average TAM of the digit between the injured and uninjured hands in both neck and shaft fractures. Four patients developed extensor tendon irritation during follow-up, but the irritations disappeared completely after removal of the wires, and there was no need to perform tenolysis. The average DASH score was 8.7 (range, 0-21). Radiographic union was achieved in all patients at a mean of 5.2 weeks. Radiographic assessment revealed a significant reduction in the average dorsal angulation to 8° (SD, 2) in neck fractures and to 4° (SD, 2) in shaft fractures postoperatively. The average shortening was corrected significantly to 1 mm (SD, 2) in neck fractures and to -1 mm (SD, 2) in shaft fractures postoperatively. Based on our experience, our retrograde intramedullary K-wire fixation technique is an acceptable alternative modality for the treatment of unstable displaced metacarpal fractures. This straightforward technique can facilitate early hand mobilization, correct the deformity, and provide good clinical and radiographic outcomes.

The Wide-Awake Approach to Dupuytren's Disease: Fasciectomy under Local Anesthetic with Epinephrine

The Wide-Awake Approach to Dupuytren's contracture involves fasciectomy under local anesthetic with epinephrine and no tourniquet. The goal of this study is to show that the Wide-Awake Approach produces equivalent outcomes to fasciectomy under general anesthetic with a tourniquet, with fewer risks to the patient. A multicenter retrospective review was conducted on 111 patients with fasciectomies under local or general anesthetic between 2001 and 2007. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, cost, as well as range of motion was collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SAS. Of 148 fingers, 102 were treated under local and 46 under general anesthetic. The average postoperative Total Active Motion (TAM) for general anesthetic patients was 199.0 ± 29.6 (D5), 223.9 ± 29.3 (D4), 234.6 ± 14.6 (D3), and 246.7 ± 14.4 (D2). The average postoperative TAM for local anesthetic patients was 168.3 ± 62.2 (D5), 195.9 ± 67.5 (D4), 173.0 ± 72.6 (D3), and 177.5 ± 31.8 (D2). There were no significant differences between any of these individual groups (p = 0.09, 0.26, 0.12, and 0.20, respectively); however, when pooled, the overall TAM was significantly greater in the general anesthesia group (222.0 ± 29.7 vs. 186.0 ± 63.0, p = 0.002.). Complication rates and types were similar with both techniques. The Wide-Awake Approach to Dupuytren's contracture avoids general anesthetic risks and has cost benefits to healthcare providers. Although it yields similar range of motion outcomes to fasciectomy performed under general anesthesia, total active motion may be better with fasciectomy done under general anesthesia.

Specific Complications Associated with Different Types of Intrinsic Pedicle Flaps of the Hand

One hundred eight pedicle flaps intrinsic to the hand were performed in 98 male and 10 female patients averaging 36 years of age for digit-level trauma in 19 thumbs, 27 index, 50 long, 8 ring, and 4 small fingers. Specific flaps employed were 79 antegrade proper digital artery, 10 reverse proper digital artery, 6 reverse second dorsal metacarpal artery, 5 antegrade first dorsal metacarpal artery, 6 reverse dorsal ulnar artery of thumb, and 2 dorsal middle phalangeal flaps. The final average total active motion in the fingers was 235 degrees. Complications in 42 cases (39% actively smoking) included 10 partial flap losses, 13 cases of superficial epidermolysis, 4 cases of venous congestion, 4 superficial infections, 3 deep infections, and 8 cases of delayed healing at the wound margin. Second surgeries required were 3 debridements of deep wound infections, 3 revisions of the distal fingertip, and 9 full-thickness skin grafts. Specific associations of complications with flap type were between antegrade proper digital artery flaps and partial flap loss, epidermolysis, delayed wound healing, and infections at the distal margin but no cases of venous congestion. Reverse-flow flaps experienced venous congestion and epidermolysis but no partial flap losses or infection.