Proximal interphalangeal joint fractures treated with a dynamic external fixator: A multicenter and retrospective study of 88 cases

Hand-Specific External Fixation for Treatment of Complex Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Injuries

Background

Complex proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) fractures are challenging injuries to treat. There are multiple established treatment methods available for these injuries, including dynamic external fixation. This study reports the outcomes of complex PIPJ fractures treated with a hand-specific external fixation device.

Methods

Twenty-five fingers in 25 patients were treated with the DigiFix external fixator device for treatment of a PIPJ dorsal fracture dislocation (n = 16) or pilon fracture (n = 9). There were 16 males and 9 females with a mean age of 40 years (range: 14-75 years) at the time of injury. The median time from injury to surgery was 10 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 5; range: 3-49). Chart and radiographic data were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

The average duration of external fixation was 41 days (range: 26-62 days). At a mean follow-up of 28 weeks (range: 12-105 weeks), the mean PIPJ flexion was 82 (range: 30-105 degrees), extension was -10° (range: -30 to 0 degrees), and flexion/extension arc of motion was 72 degrees (range: 30-95 degrees). Final mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score was 21.5 (range: 0-65.8). There were zero major complications and six (24%) minor complications, including superficial cellulitis (4) and stiffness (2).

Conclusion

Dynamic external fixation for the treatment of complex PIPJ injuries allows for early range of motion and leads to favorable outcomes. This hand-specific external fixator has a reproducible technique which results in predictable and reliable PIPJ distraction.

Results of an Adjustable Traction Method Using Surgical Gloves and K-Wires for the Treatment of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture Dislocation

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate an adjustable traction method using surgical gloves and Kirschner wires (K-wires) for proximal interphalangeal (PIP) fracture dislocations and examine the association between a reduction pin and range of motion (ROM), and between subluxation immediately after removal and ROM.

Methods

Patients who underwent this surgical method for PIP joint dislocation fractures between 2003 and 2017 were included. We retrospectively investigated the postoperative results. We defined patients having surgery within 4 weeks after an injury as fresh cases and after 4 weeks as chronic cases. K-wires were inserted at the center of the proximal phalangeal head and the distal part of the middle phalanx to create a frame, and the finger of the surgical glove was used as a traction-force generator. We analyzed the association of ROM with each finger, age, presence of a reduction pin, and subluxation immediately after frame removal.

Results

Overall, 37 fingers were included (27 acute and 10 chronic). The mean age of the participants was 40.0 years (range: 13-72 years). The mean follow-up period was 10.5 months (3-47 months). The final active ROM was -4.6°/94.6° (extension/flexion) for acute cases and -27.0°/73.5° for chronic ones. Active ROM was significantly better in patients with a reduction pin than in those without it. Subluxation immediately after frame removal was not associated with postoperative active ROM. Additionally, all PIP joints with subluxation that occurred immediately after frame removal achieved good joint congruity.

Conclusions

The results of the adjustable traction method using surgical gloves and K-wires were satisfactory. Postoperative ROM did not decrease because of the additional reduction pin. Subluxation occurring immediately after frame removal did not affect the ROM, ultimately resulting in good joint congruity.

Type of study/level of evidence

Therapeutic IV.

Arthroplasty for destroyed proximal interphalangeal joint in hand trauma surgery: Silicone hinged NeuFlex® or gliding Tactys®?

The treatment of proximal interphalangeal joints (PIP) after a traumatic injury has produced disappointing outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the functional results of emergency hinged or gliding arthroplasty for destroyed PIP joints. A two-center retrospective study was carried out in 24 patients with open and closed trauma of the PIP joint of the fingers from 2007 to 2019. Fifteen hinged silicone implants (NeuFlex®) and nine gliding implants (Tactys®) were used. Pain on a visual analog scale (VAS), stability and total active motion (TAM), grip and pinch strength (Jamar®), QuickDASH and PRWE and satisfaction were assessed, and X-rays were performed. With a mean follow-up of 48 months, 24 patients aged 58 years on average were reviewed. Pain on VAS was 0.2/10, the TAM was 72% of the contralateral side, the QuickDASH was 15.6/100 and the PRWE was 24.5/100. PIP flexion was ≥50% of the contralateral side in 75% of patients. PIP and DIP extensor lag of 9° was significantly larger with the Tactys® than with the NeuFlex®, with no significant difference in the TAM. Three clinodactylies in fingers with the NeuFlex® and three reducible swanneck deformities in fingers with the Tactys® were noted. Three-quarters of patients were very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome. Emergency PIP arthroplasty with Tactys® seems to provide functional results that are as good as with NeuFlex®. Clinodactyly was found with NeuFlex® use. A significant PIP and IPD extensor lag of 9° and swan-neck deformities were found with Tactys® without significant functional impairment.

The Syringe External Fixator: Short- and Medium-Term Functional Outcomes From This Inexpensive and Customizable Treatment for Comminuted Intra-Articular Fractures of the Hand

PURPOSE

Comminuted intra-articular fractures and fracture dislocations of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal joints are challenging. Dynamic external fixation, permitting early joint motion while still minimizing forces across the healing joint, can result in acceptable postoperative active range of motion (AROM). However, some fractures are not initially stable enough for early dynamic motion; further, many available dynamic external fixation systems are costly and cumbersome. We reviewed our experience using an external fixator made from a 1-mL syringe and K-wires and report outcomes using it as a static fixator, dynamic fixator, or configured as a static fixator and then converted to a dynamic fixator in the clinic.

METHODS

Patients with intra-articular fractures and fracture dislocations of the MCP and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints treated between 2014 and 2020 using syringe external fixators were retrospectively reviewed. We reviewed demographics, mechanisms, treatment types and durations, and postoperative AROM, as well as complications including infection, pin loosening, nonunion, hardware failure, and need for further surgery. Patients were analyzed by the level of joint injury (MCP versus PIP) and by treatment pattern.

RESULTS

After excluding 23 patients with 25 joint injuries who were lost to follow-up or had inadequate outcome data, 27 patients with 29 joint injuries were reviewed. The average follow-up was 171 days after surgery. The postoperative AROM at the MCP level averaged 55° for static fixation and 30° for static-to-dynamic fixation. The postoperative AROM at the PIP level averaged 64° for static fixation, 66° for static-to-dynamic fixation, and 80° for dynamic fixation. Three pin site infections and 2 loose pins were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The syringe external fixator is an inexpensive, effective, and customizable treatment for intra-articular MCP and interphalangeal fractures and fracture dislocations, and results in acceptable postoperative AROM outcomes and complication rates.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Mid-term Outcomes of Treatment of Fracture Dislocation of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint with Gexfinger®-A New Dynamic External Fixator

Background: Fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) are challenging injuries and a dynamic external fixator frame is often used. We devised a dynamic external fixator device called the Gexfinger^® that allows greater control of the degree of traction. The aim of this study is to report the mid-term outcomes of this device. Methods: This is a retrospective study of patients with fracture dislocation of the PIPJ who were treated with the Gexfinger^® over a 3-year period. Clinical data with regard to the patient, the injury, treatment and period of follow-up were recorded. The outcome measures included time to return to work, arc of motion at the interphalangeal joints, grip strength, visual analogue score (VAS) for pain, patient satisfaction and complications. Results: We studied 26 patients (17 men and 9 women) with an average age of 38 years. The average articular surface involvement was 56%. The mean period between injury and surgery was 6 days and the frames were maintained for 5.5 weeks on average. The mean follow-up period was 8.5 weeks. All patients returned to work at an average of 7 weeks. The mean arc of motion at the PIPJ and distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) were 82° and 65°, respectively and the mean grip strength was 83% of the contralateral side. 22 patients reported no pain at the final follow-up. Fifteen patients were very satisfied, 8 satisfied and 3 unsatisfied. Two patients had stiffness of the PIPJ. Conclusions: The mid-term outcomes of the Gexfinger^® are similar to other methods of dynamic traction described in literature. It is modular, easy to assemble and allows a greater control of the degree of traction. In combination with additional screws and/or K-wires, it has allowed us to treat a wide spectrum of PIPJ fracture dislocations with good outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Surgical Management of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture-Dislocations: A Review of Outcomes

Background: Treatment of proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) fracture-dislocations is difficult given the potential long-term complications of the involved finger and entire hand. Several surgical methods have been utilized for management of these injuries, none of which have shown consistently favorable results. The purpose of this systematic review of the literature is to report the post-operative outcomes of multiple treatment modalities for PIPJ fracture-dislocations in various studies. Methods: A literature review of PubMed and EMBASE databases was performed for all articles on PIPJ fracture-dislocations. Outcomes of interest included PIPJ range of motion, grip strength (% of contralateral hand), and quick disabilities of arm, shoulder, hand (QuickDASH). Articles were distributed into 5 groups by surgical method: open reduction, percutaneous fixation, dynamic external fixation, extension-block pinning, and hemi-hamate arthroplasty. Results: Forty-eight of 1679 total screened articles were included. The weighted means of post-operative range of motion (ROM; degrees) at final follow-up were open reduction 84.7 (n = 146), percutaneous fixation 86.5 (n = 32), dynamic external fixation 81.7 (n = 389), extension-block pinning 83.6 (n = 85), and hemi-hamate arthroplasty 79.3 (n = 52). Dorsal fracture-dislocations, regardless of surgical method, had an average ROM of 83.2 (n = 321), grip strength 91% (n = 132), and QuickDASH of 6.6 (n = 59) while pilon injuries had an average ROM of 80.2 (n = 48), grip strength 100% (n = 13), and QuickDASH of 11.4 (n = 13). Conclusion: Percutaneous fixation yielded the highest post-operative ROM at final follow-up while extension-block pinning resulted in the greatest grip strength. While dorsal fracture-dislocations produced higher average ROM and lower QuickDASH score, pilon fractures produced a higher grip strength. No treatment method or fracture type yielded consistently better outcomes than another.

Mid-Term Outcomes of Unstable Complex Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture Management Using the Ligamentotaxor® Device: A Case Series of 33 Cases

Background and objective

Fractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) of the hand have always been difficult to treat, often leading to less than satisfactory outcomes. The use of dynamic external fixator devices to treat these fractures is well established and it is based on the philosophy of minimal soft tissue injury and early joint mobilization. There has been a wide variety in their designs, surgical technique, and reported outcomes. This study aimed to report the long-term outcome following the use of the Ligamentotaxor® device (Ligamentotaxor1, ArexTM, Palaiseau, France) in treating fractures of the PIPJ of the hand.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2018, 33 patients treated in our institution with Ligamentotaxor® for fractures of the PIPJ were followed up for a minimum period of 12 months. Radiographs and clinical records were reviewed for clinical and functional outcomes including finger range of motion (ROM), union, Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and any complications.

Results

A total of 33 patients completed a minimum follow-up of 12 months (mean: 27.5 months). All fractures showed radiological union at a mean of 33 days. Surgery was performed within a mean of 8.9 days and surgical operating time averaged 23.7 minutes. Devices were removed at a mean of 33 days. At the end of the follow-up, the mean range of flexion was 66 degrees and the mean extension lag was six degrees. The mean QuickDASH score was 8.72. Of note, 85% of the patients experienced no limitations in their daily activities, while 35% reported pain on exertion. One patient had a pin tract infection. Four patients had cold intolerance and persistent swelling.

Conclusion

The results of the use of Ligamentotaxor® in this series are comparable to those of other dynamic external fixator devices reported in the literature. Thanks to its quick and easy surgical technique, the device provides an appealing option for the management of PIPJ fractures.

Management of intraarticular proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations and pilon fractures with the Ligamentotaxor® device

INTRODUCTION

Fracture-dislocation and pilon injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joints (PIPJ) continue to pose significant management challenges. Stable fracture configurations can be treated with extension block splinting or pinning. Unstable fractures usually require open or closed reduction and fixation either directly/internally onto the fracture using Kirschner wires, cerclage wires, screws or miniplates or indirectly/externally by ligamentotaxis using external fixators which can be dynamic or static. Dynamic external fixators, such as Suzuki's pins and rubber traction system, S-Quattro and Hynes/Giddins frame, appear intuitive as they provide axial distraction, which reduces the fracture whilst obviating the need to open the fracture. They also allow immediate active movement whilst maintaining reduction. The Ligamentotaxor® (Arex, Pallaiseau Cedex, France) is a commercially-available dynamic external fixator which has been used at our institution since 2013.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study assessed the outcomes (interphalangeal joint active range of movement (AROM), QuickDASH score and complications) in 19 patients [mean age of 48.6 (SD 16.2)] whose proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) fracture-dislocations and/or pilon fractures were treated with the Ligamentotaxor®. Injuries were classified according to Seno i.e. (1) volar lip fracture ± dorsal dislocation (2) dorsal lip fracture ± volar dislocation (3) pilon fracture.

RESULTS

There were fifteen (79%) pilon/Seno 3, three (16%) Seno 1 and one (5%) Seno 2 fractures. The mean PIPJ AROM was 70.6° (SD 4.48°) for all Seno classes and 70° (SD 5.6°) for the pilon subgroup. The QuickDASH score averaged to 2.65 (SD 0.88). There were two pin-site infections, three pin-site inflammations, one osteomyelitis and two complex regional pain syndrome diagnoses. One patient required arthroplasty after missing several appointments.

CONCLUSIONS

These results, considering the predominance of pilon fractures, compare favourably the published Ligamentotaxor® and other dynamic external fixator systems.

Clinical and radiological midterm outcome after treatment of pilonoidal fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint with a parabolic dynamic external fixator

INTRODUCTION

Several methods treating proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) fracture dislocations have been established providing early joint mobilization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcome of unstable fracture dislocations of the PIP treated with a parabolic dynamic external fixator consisting of two Kirschner (K)-wires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients who sustained a pilonoidal fracture of the PIP joint and were treated with a dynamic external fixator were evaluated retrospectively. The active range of motion, pain level, DASH score, Buck Gramcko Score, and the patient's satisfaction and acceptance were assessed. X-ray images were evaluated for bone healing, joint alignment, and signs of osteoarthritis.

RESULTS

Mean PIP joint range of motion was 76°. Patients showed very mild discomfort (mean 0.7), high patient satisfaction (mean 1.9), and a moderate acceptance (mean 2.7). The mean DASH score was 11.6 and the Buck Gramcko score 13. All patients showed bone healing. One patient suffered from a recurrent dislocation, and another a subluxation of the PIP joint while wearing the fixator. Both joints could be corrected by modifying the fixator under image intensifier. Twenty patients (95%) showed a concentric and stable aligned joint. Three patients showed an osteoarthritis stage 0, five stage 1, nine stage 2, three stage 3, and one stage 4 according to the Kellgran-Lawrence Score.

CONCLUSION

The use of a parabolic dynamic external fixator constructed from two K-wires restores joint alignment and stability in unstable pilonoidal PIP joint disclocation fractures. It allows immediate PIP joint mobilization to avoid adhesions. Modifications of the radius of the parabolic construct within cases of postoperative malalignment, without anesthesia, can restore joint axis and malalignment. This fixator is a cost-effective alternative, showing a good clinical outcome.

Joint distraction and early mobilization using a new dynamic external finger fixator for the treatment of fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint

BACKGROUND

Dynamic external fixation is a useful treatment option for unstable fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, because it simultaneously reduces axial pressure load on the joint surface, maintains congruent joint reduction, and permits early joint motion. However, most current devices are large, hindering finger movement, and unstable. To address these problems, we developed a dynamic external finger fixator, named the Micro Ortho Fixator^®. The purpose of this study was to review the results of using the new external finger fixator to treat unstable fracture-dislocations of the PIP joint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine patients who sustained unstable fracture-dislocation injuries of the PIP joint were treated with the Micro Ortho Fixator^®. Seven fractures were accompanied by depressed bony fragments at the base of the middle phalanx. All patients were evaluated for pain and range of PIP motion at the final follow-up. Radiographs of the affected fingers were evaluated for PIP congruity and reduction. The mean follow-up duration was 11.1 months (range: 6-33 months).

RESULTS

At the final follow-up, pain averaged 0.3 (range: 0-2) on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and the total arc of motion at the PIP joint averaged 91.2° (range: 50-110°). All fractures had healed, and the intra-articular step-off improved from 1.9 mm (SD: 1.0) before surgery to 0.2 mm (SD: 0.4) at the final follow-up. The patients who sustained sports injuries returned to competition after an average of 3.5 months (range: 2.5-4 months).

CONCLUSION

The external fixator is compact and facilitates range-of-motion (ROM) exercises, has high stability, and achieves good joint congruity and an ROM equivalent to the healthy joint of the patient.

STUDY DESIGN/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/IV.

Fracture-dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the long fingers: Report of an unusual case requiring open surgery

Dorsal fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the long fingers are in most cases unstable. They require surgery, whose primary aim is to restore and maintain articular congruency. While numerous techniques exist to treat these injuries, none have been shown to be superior to any of the others in terms of outcomes and complications. The least invasive techniques should be used as much as possible. We report here a rare case of incarceration of the flexor tendons in the PIP fracture which required open surgery.

Treatment of dorsal fracture-dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint using the Ligamentotaxor device: clinical and radiographic preliminary results

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK

Fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint are complex injuries, often difficult to treat. Several treatment options have been described. Among them dynamic external fixation proved to be a safe technique leading to good results in many authors experience. The principles of this treatment are to avoid edema, prevent stiffness and tendon adhesions, promote joint remodelling and facilitate rehabilitation. The Ligamentotaxor® device is a simple and reproducible dynamic external fixation system that has been used in recent years to treat proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations, with favourable results. The aim of the present study is to evaluate our preliminary results with the Ligamentotaxor® device for treatment of these complex lesions.

METHODS

Four patients between December 2015 and January 2017 were treated at our institution with the Ligamentotaxor® device. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated at mean 6 months follow-up.

RESULTS

Clinical results were meanly good and appeared to be comparable to most recent literature. Mean range of motion was 60,5°, mean extension lag 18,5°. Mean QuickDASH and Michigan Hand Questionnaire scored 21.6 and 72 respectively. Radiographic evaluation showed fracture healing in all cases. No relevant complications were noted.

CONCLUSION

The Ligamentotaxor® device is simple to implant, provides good stability and allows an immediate gentle active movement. According to present work the preliminary results are encouraging.

Volar, Dorsal, and Lateral Locking Plate Fixation for Pilon Fractures

The more common dorsal fracture subluxations at the base of the middle phalanx have an intact dorsal buttress of articular surface in continuity with the shaft. Capitalizing on this foundation, various fixation methods have met with relatively equivalent success including Kirschner wires, screws only, nonlocking plate and screws, and external fixation. Pilon fractures are complete articular fractures, where the comminuted articular fragments lack any structural connection to the more distal shaft of the middle phalanx, and have largely relied upon external fixation traction systems. The theoretical concept is that axial distraction prevents articular collapse and that the surrounding soft tissue envelope acts to gather the articular fragments; the term "ligamentotaxis" is often applied. Most constructs are founded on a transverse wire through the axis of rotation in the head of the proximal phalanx with the idea that patients will pursue active motion, termed "dynamic fixation." In practice, patients find it difficult to move well while the construct is in place and have rarely achieved much range by the time of removal. These cases are prone to loss of articular reduction leading to posttraumatic arthritis, substantial proximal interphalangeal joint stiffness, and pin-tract infection. Such problems are solved with locking plates that support the articular reduction throughout healing and permit immediate range of motion while avoiding other complications such as pin-tract infection. Outcomes are reported for 40 patients treated with locking plates applied from volar, dorsal, and lateral to treat pilon fractures.