Palmar Approach Research Articles

Spontane fixierte Blockade des Zeigefingergrundgelenks in Beugestellung

Spontaneous fixations of MP-joints of fingers and thumbs are rare and are often a challenging task for hand surgeons. We present a 25-year-old female office employee with a fixed painless MP-joint of the left index finger in 90° flexion with normal PIP- und DIP-joint range of motion. Using the palmar approach to the MP-joint the entrapped accessory collateral ligament which was constrained by a prominent radial condylus could be identified. Operative removal of the prominence has released the joint. An uncomplicated wound healing has followed with completely unrestricted range of motion. If a closed reduction should be considered, it ought to be done cautiously without anaesthetics. A failed -reduction entails an operative revision using the palmar approach.

AB0738 Concordance of greyscale and powerdoppler modes in ultrasound assessment of ra: significantly better performance of the dorsal versus palmar approach to mcp and pip joints

BackgroundUltrasound (US) assessment of MCP and PIP joints in RA can be performed using a palmar and/or a dorsal approach. At the moment, there is no clear preference for either...

Anatomy and Clinical Relevance of the Ulnocarpal Ligament

Anatomy and Clinical Relevance of the Ulnocarpal Ligament

Open irreducible fracture/dislocation of the four ulnar metacarpals at the metacarpophalangeal joints: case report

Open irreducible fracture/dislocation of multiple metacarpophalangeal joints is an exceedingly rare injury and, to our knowledge, not yet described in the literature. An earlier belief that metacarpophalangeal dislocations were high-energy injuries is questioned by this case report due to an unusual case of open irreducible fracture/dislocation of the four ulnar metacarpals that occurred in a hand trauma. A 24- year-old man presented in the emergency department with an open irreducible fracture/dislocation of the four ulnar meta- carpals and impaired flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joint of his left hand. The injury was described as an open injury of his third metacarpal head with an associated fracture of the fourthmetacarpalheadand dorsal dislocation ofthe fourulnar metacarpals after a fall onto the outstretched hand. Early recognition and anatomical reduction are essential to achieve good long-term outcomes. Massive edema, interposed volar ligaments, and overlapping metacarpal bases are the usual obstacles to a successful closed reduction. Use of a palmar approach was the key to reduce the displacement. Joint stabil- ity and osteosynthesis with K-wires were achieved, and the patient has been asymptomatic for more than 24 months.

Opening Wedge Osteotomy for Distal Radius Malunion: Dorsal or Palmar Approach?

Background There are various technical variations to consider when performing a corrective osteotomy of a distal radius malunion. We chose two of the more commonly reported techniques and compared the results of volar (palmar) osteotomy and fixation with dorsal osteotomy and fixation. Method Within a continuous cohort of patients who had undergone corrective osteotomy for a malunited Colles fracture, two groups could be identified retrospectively. In 8 patients a dorsal approach was used. A structural trapezoidal graft, subtending the amount of correction, was inserted into the osteotomy gap and stabilization was performed with a thin round-hole mini-fragment plate. In 14 patients a palmar approach and a palmar fixed-angle plate was used for correction of the malunion and for angular stable rigid fixation of the two fragments. The osteotomy gap was loosely filled with nonstructural cancellous bone chips. A retrospective comparison of the two groups was performed to see whether the outcome was affected by the use of either operative technique.The demographics, the preoperative amount of deformity, range of motion, pain, and force were comparable for both groups. All osteotomies healed without loss of correction. After a minimal follow-up of one year, radiographic appearance, objective functional parameters were assessed and subjective data (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH] score and special pain and function questionnaire) obtained. Results These data did not show statistical difference for the two groups except for the amount of final wrist flexion. This parameter was significantly better in patients who had palmar approaches and fixed-angle plates. Conclusion Corrective osteotomies of distal radius malunions can be done in either way. It might result in some better flexion, if performed volarly.

Comparison of the results and complications of palmar and dorsal miniinvasive approaches in the surgery of scaphoid fractures. A prospective randomized study

To compare the functional results and complications associated with palmar percutaneous and dorsal limited approaches in the surgical treatment of nondisplaced or minimally displaced scaphoid fractures type B2. A total of 76 patients with acute nondisplaced or minimally displaced type B2 scaphoid fractures were included in a prospective randomised study. The assignment patients to groups according to type of operative approach was based on systematic sampling. Clinical follow-up, X-ray or CT imaging were performed at four, eight and twelve weeks and one year after the surgery. Patient satisfaction and the results of DASH form were evaluated as well. The differences were statistically tested. We found significantly better flexion and grip strength in the group of palmar percutaneous aprroach during the follow-up examination at eight weeks after the surgery. Significantly better flexion of the same group persisted at twelve-week follow-up examination. No differences in results or complications were statistically significant up to one year follow up. We found no advantage to the palmar percutaneous approach in the treatment of nondisplaced and minimally displaced scaphoid fractures type B2 compared to dorsal limited approach.

Palmar reconstruction of the triangular fibrocartilage complex for instability of the distal radioulnar joint: a biomechanical study

We developed a new triangular fibrocartilage complex reconstruction technique for distal radioulnar joint instability in which the palmar portion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex was predominantly reconstructed, and evaluated whether such reconstruction can restore stability of the distal radioulnar joint in seven fresh cadaver upper extremities. Distal radioulnar joint instability was induced by cutting all soft-tissue stabilizers around the distal ulna. Using a palmar approach, a palmaris longus tendon graft was sutured to the remnant of the palmar radioulnar and ulnocarpal ligaments. The graft was then passed through a bone tunnel created at the fovea and was sutured. Loads were applied to the radius, and dorsopalmar displacements of the radius relative to the ulna were measured using an electromagnetic tracking device in neutral rotation, 60° supination and 60° pronation. We compared the dorsopalmar displacements before sectioning, before reconstruction and after reconstruction. Dorsopalmar instability produced by sectioning significantly improved in all forearm positions after reconstruction.

A Palmar Approach for Insertion of a Free, Nonvascularized Phalangeal Transfer

Free nonvascularized phalangeal transfer from a toe to congenitally hypoplastic digits, is an established procedure in the repertoire of digit reconstruction. The hypoplastic digit is frequently flexed, due to shortage of palmar soft tissues. The phalanx must be transferred intact, with a complete periosteal covering. A new technique of incision and dissection is described utilizing a palmar V approach, closed after skin advancement, as a Y. This permits ample visualization of the digital envelope to receive the phalanx, protection under direct vision of the digital bundles, and simultaneous correction of the deficient palmar skin, without tension.

Treatments for acute and old distal radius fracture with lunate dislocation

Our study was undertaken to determine the correct treatment protocol for distal radius fracture with lunate anterior dislocation. From 2000 to 2007, 58 patients (36 with acute injury and 22 with old injury) with distal radius fracture with lunate anterior dislocation were enrolled in the study. Among acute injury patients, 15 were treated through manipulative reduction and plaster fixation and 21 were treated through minimal invasive poking reduction followed by Kirschner wire and plaster fixation. Among old injury patients, 8 underwent operative reduction of lunate dislocation through the palmar approach and Kirschner wire and plaster fixation, whereas 14 patients underwent operative reduction and fixation through the dorsal approach combined with reparation of the dorsal radiolunate ligament. Lidstrom wrist function scores and the morbidity of lunate necrosis and osteoarthritis were documented and evaluated. Lidstrom wrist function scores revealed that the rate of excellent and good scores was higher in acute injury patients than in old injury patients (91.7 versus 54.5%, respectively; P=0.018). The lunate necrosis rate was lower in acute injury patients than in old injury patients (0 versus 27.2%, respectively; P=0.027). For old injury patients, the lunate necrosis rate was higher in those treated with the palmar approach than in those treated with the dorsal approach (50 versus 14.3%, respectively; P=0.033). The key points for resolving distal radius fracture with lunate dislocation are prompt and precise diagnosis and treatment of lunate dislocation to prevent old lunate dislocation. We recommend that the surgical procedure is performed through the dorsal approach with reparation of the dorsal radiolunate ligament.

Assessing Injection Techniques in the Treatment of Trigger Finger

Background: Trigger finger is characterized by the inability to smoothly flex and extend the digit. Corticosteroids are an accepted non-surgical treatment option and can be delivered via two techniques. While the palmar approach is more commonly used, some have suggested that the mid-axial approach may be less painful for patients and yield higher intrasheath injection rates. The purpose of this study is to compare the accuracy of the palmar and midaxial approaches for delivery of corticosteroids into the flexor tendon sheath using radio-opaque dye in a cadaver model. Methods: A total of 50 injections were performed, 25 via midaxial technique and 25 via palmar technique. A one inch, 25-gauge needle was used to inject 1 mL of Isovue contrast dye into the flexor tendon sheath under live fluoroscopy. The fluoroscopic images were examined after injection to determine intrasheath versus extrasheath delivery of the dye, with visualization of contrast filling the sheath defining a successful injection. Results: The midaxial approach had a success rate of 52% compared to the conventional palmar approach success rate of 36%, p=0.5. The ring finger is the most common location of trigger finger and the rates of success were equal between groups for this digit (80%). Conclusions: Based on our findings, there is no statistical difference in the accuracy of intrasheath injection between the midaxial technique and palmar technique. The midaxial technique can be considered as an alternative to the palmar technique for trigger finger injection.

DORSAL PERCUTANEOUS CANNULATED MINI-SCREW FIXATION FOR FRACTURES OF THE HAMATE HOOK

Open fixation of acute fractures, delayed union and non-union of the hamate hook through a palmar approach has been reported. Minimal invasive fixation using a dorsal percutaneous approach and a headless cannulated mini-screw is another option not commonly considered. The authors present their case series of patients who underwent dorsal percutaneous fixation of acute fractures and delayed union of the hamate hook. This study retrospectively reviewed six consecutive patients (five male patients and one female patient) with non-displaced acute fractures (< 8 weeks) and delayed union (8 to 12 weeks) of the hamate hook treated with dorsal percutaneous cannulated mini-screw fixation. The indications for surgery included wrist pain, patient refusal of conservative treatment, and prevention of non-union and hook excision. Exclusion criteria included displacement or inadequate size of the hamate hook, previous surgery, associated carpal injury, flexor tendon rupture, and median or ulnar nerve lesion in the carpal tunnel and Guyon's canal respectively. Each fracture was visualized by radiography and computed tomography before and after the intervention. Anatomically correct fixation of the hamate hook with central screw positioning was achieved in all patients. No displacement or disruption of the cortical shell of the hook was observed. The union rate was 100% with all patients being able to resume their pre-injury activities after an average of seven weeks from surgery. This pilot study demonstrates that non-displaced acute fractures and delayed union of the hamate hook can be treated successfully by dorsal percutaneous cannulated mini-screw fixation with minimal morbidity and complications.

Corrective osteotomy through palmar approach for the malunion of the radius after distal radius fracture

Corrective osteotomy through palmar approach for the malunion of the radius after distal radius fracture

Accuracy of Sonographically Guided and Palpation Guided Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid Joint Injections

The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the accuracies of sonographically guided and palpation guided scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) joint injections in a cadaveric model. A clinician with 6 years of experience performing sonographically guided procedures injected 1.0 mL of a diluted latex solution into the STT joints of 20 unembalmed cadaveric wrist specimens using a palmar approach. At a minimum of 24 hours after injection, an experienced clinician specializing in hand care completed palpation guided injections in the same specimens using a dorsal approach and 1 mL of a different-colored latex. A fellowship-trained hand surgeon blinded to the injection technique then dissected each specimen to assess injection accuracy. Injections were graded as accurate if the colored latex was found in the STT joint, whereas inaccurate injections resulted in no latex being found in the joint. All sonographically guided injections were accurate (100%; 95% confidence interval, 81%-100%), whereas only 80% of palpation guided injections were accurate (95% confidence interval, 61%-99%). Sonographically guided injections were significantly more accurate than palpation guided injections, as determined by the ability to deliver latex into the joint (P < .05). Sonographic guidance can be used to inject the STT joint with a high degree of accuracy and is more accurate than palpation guidance within the limits of this study design. Clinicians should consider using sonographic guidance to perform STT joint injections when precise intra-articular placement is desired. Further clinical investigation examining the role of sonographically guided STT joint injections in the treatment of patients with radial wrist pain syndromes is warranted.

Comparison of 2D and 3D navigation techniques for percutaneous screw insertion into the scaphoid: Results of an experimental cadaver study

Navigation in hand surgery is still in the process of development. Initial studies have demonstrated the feasibility of 2D and 3D navigation for the palmar approach in scaphoid fractures, but a comparison of the possibilities of 2D and 3D navigation for the dorsal approach is still lacking. The aim of the present work was to test navigation for the dorsal approach in the scaphoid using cadaver bones. After development of a special radiolucent resting splint for the dorsal approach, we performed 2D- and 3D-navigated scaphoid osteosynthesis in 12 fresh-frozen cadaver forearms using a headless compression screw (Synthes). The operation time, radiation time, number of trials for screw insertion, and screw positions were analyzed. In six 2D-navigated screw osteosyntheses, we found two false positions with an average radiation time of 5 ± 2 seconds. Using 3D navigation, we detected one false position. A false position indicates divergence from the ideal line of the axis of the scaphoid but without penetration of the cortex. The initial scan clearly increased overall radiation time in the 3D-navigated group, and for both navigation procedures operating time was longer than in our clinical experience without navigation. Nonetheless, 2D and 3D navigation for non-dislocated scaphoid fractures is feasible, and navigation might reduce the risk of choosing an incorrect screw length, thereby possibly avoiding injury to the subtending cortex. The 3D navigation is more difficult to interpret than 2D fluoroscopic navigation but shows greater precision. Overall, navigation is costly, and the moderate advantages it offers for osteosynthesis of scaphoid fractures must be considered critically in comparisons with conventional operating techniques.

Isolated scaphoid fracture with anterosuperior dislocation of the proximal fragment

Isolated fracture of the scaphoid with an associated anterosuperior dislocation of the proximal fragment is an extremely rare injury. We present two cases where open reduction and internal fixation through a palmar and dorsal approach was performed. No instances of non-union, necrosis of the proximal fragment of the scaphoid or scapholunate dissociation were noted during a mean follow-up period of 18 months. Clinical results (active motion, power grip, DASH) following such injury and intervention are presented. The aetiology of this rare injury is discussed.

Palmar-divergent dislocation of the scaphoid and the lunate

We describe a patient with palmar-divergent dislocation of the scaphoid and lunate. After successful closed reduction, the scapholunate and lunotriquetral ligaments were sutured through the dorsal approach, and the anterior capsule was sutured through the palmar approach. The scapholunate and lunotriquetral joints were fixed with Kirschner wires for 7 weeks. At the 1-year follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging showed no evidence of avascular necrosis of the scaphoid or lunate, and radiographs showed no evidence of the dorsal and volar intercalated segment instability patterns associated with carpal instability. However, flexion of the scaphoid and a break in Gilula’s line remained. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing treatment of palmar-divergent dislocation of the scaphoid and lunate by suturing the carpal interosseous ligaments.

Open wedge corrective osteotomy of malunited distal radius fractures through a palmar approach

Open wedge corrective osteotomy of malunited distal radius fractures through a palmar approach

Applicability, interests and limitations of the ultrasound examination in the equine deep digital flexor apparatus of the thoracic limb.

The deep digital flexor tendon apparatus is represented by the distal part of the deep digital flexor tendon, the distal digital annular ligament and podotrochlear bursa, being the part of the podotrochlear apparatus most prone to injuries. The purpose of this study was to develop a systematic ultrasonographic approach of this apparatus and to present the accuracy of the ultrasound exam in imaging this anatomical formation. The ultrasound exam was performed on 10 sound horses using the palmar and transcuneal approach. Detailed description of the transverse and longitudinal ultrasonographic images of this region is provided. The ultrasound of the foot has been done with a non-portable machine Aloka Prosound Alpha 10 (Aloka Co. Ltd., 6-22-1 Mure, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, 181, Japan). Convex and microconvex multifrequence transducers, with a frequency varying between 5.0 to 10.0 MHz have been used. This technique allowed us to image all the components of the deep digital flexor apparatus with the specification that it presents some limitations in examining the collateral parts of the distal deep digital flexor tendon and distal digital annular ligament. The main advantages of this technique are: low cost, short examination time and applicability in the field.

Advantages of Open Repair of a Foveal Tear of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Via a Palmar Surgical Approach

Foveal tears of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) can be repaired via a palmar surgical approach. Unlike the dorsal approach, in this method the floor of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon subsheath and the dorsal superficial limb of the radioulnar ligament do not hinder the view of the fovea. Patients with a fresh or chronic TFCC foveal tear and a positive ulnar fovea sign with its dorsal styloid insertion remaining intact are candidates for this procedure. During operation, the shoulder is positioned at 90 degrees of abduction, and the elbow is flexed at 90 degrees on an arm board. A 4 cm curved skin incision along the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon is made on the anterior aspect of the ulnar fovea. The ulnar fovea is exposed through a transverse capsulotomy of the distal radioulnar joint. The ulnocarpal joint distal to the TFCC is also exposed between the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon subsheath and the ulnotriquetrum ligament. After curettage of the scar tissues at the fovea, the lifted TFCC is sutured onto the fovea using a suture anchor technique.

Formgedächtnisklammer aus NITINOL („memory staple“) zur Osteosynthese des Skaphoids

Reconstruction of the scaphoid with use of NITINOL shape "memory" staples. Unstable fractures and nonunion of the middle third of the scaphoid, which need open reduction and internal fixation from palmar. The staples can only be used, if the arms of the staples can be inserted parallel to and at a distance of 3 mm to the fracture line. Allergy to nickel. Cases in which the arms of the staple cannot be inserted parallel to and at best 3 mm apart from the fracture line. In fractures, open reduction of the scaphoid through a palmar approach. If necessary, interposition of a bone graft and Kirschner wire transfixation. Drilling of the drill holes parallel and at a distance of 3 mm to the fracture line. Insertion of the NITINOL staple. In nonunion, excision of the fibrous nonunion, refreshening of the fracture surfaces, interposition of a bone graft and, if needed, fixation with a Kirschner wire. Drilling of the drill holes for the NITINOL staple and insertion of the staple. Within a few minutes the warming-up staple contracts and thereby compresses the scaphoid. Immobilization in a short cast with thumb support for 6 weeks. Control for bone healing by radiographs or computed tomography. Staples, which do not cause hardware problems, are not removed. Kirschner wires are removed after bone healing. From October 1995 to December 2006, the authors used NITINOL staples for 65 osteosyntheses of the scaphoid. Indications were 15 unstable fractures, 47 nonunions, and three partial necroses. 61 out of 65 scaphoids healed without further surgery, three of the 61 patients showed a delayed healing. Two of the four nonunions were related to the use of the NITINOL staples. Seven staples were removed, one for loosening. NITINOL shape memory staples have proven to be very helpful for osteosynthesis in fractures and nonunion of the scaphoid, if the prerequisites are given for their use.