Intramedullary Pinning for Displaced Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures: Closed Reduction and Fixation Using Either an Open Antegrade or Percutaneous Retrograde Technique

Outcomes of 15 dogs and two cats with metabone fractures treated with fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning

OBJECTIVE

To report the outcomes of 15 dogs and two cats with metabone fractures treated with fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning (FGNMP).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS

A total of 15 client owned dogs and two cats with 57 metabone fractures.

METHODS

Description of FGNMP and reporting of the following data: signalment, pre- and postoperative radiographs, intramedullary pin diameter used, anesthesia, surgery and coaptation times, duration to normal weightbearing and bone union, postoperative care and complications.

RESULTS

Median surgery time was 54 min (range: 26-99), median duration of coaptation was 14 days (range: 1-5 weeks), median time to normal weightbearing was 16 days (range: 2-45) and median time to bone union was 6 weeks (range: 4-12). All cases had at least 12 months of post-surgical follow-up with a median follow-up of 18 months (range: 12-70). No major complications occurred. Mild radiographic changes associated with subchondral bone sclerosis were noted on follow-up radiographs in 13/57 fractures. All cases returned to normal gait and full (15) or acceptable (2) function.

CONCLUSION

In this study, FGNMP was an effective and safe technique for metabone fracture repair, requiring only short-term external coaptation in most patients. Time to bone union and return to normal function compared favorably to previously reported techniques.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning provides an alternative technique for treatment of metabone fractures.

Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation for Metatarsal Fractures: A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Outcomes

Metatarsal fractures pose significant challenges in orthopedic practice, necessitating effective treatment methods to ensure optimal patient outcomes. This comprehensive review focuses on intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation as a promising intervention for metatarsal fractures. Beginning with an overview of metatarsal fractures and the imperative for effective treatments, the review delves into intramedullary fixation's definition, historical background, advantages, and disadvantages. Indications for its use in metatarsal fractures are discussed, providing a foundation for understanding its application. The surgical technique section outlines critical aspects, including patient selection criteria and preoperative planning. Before presenting a detailed step-by-step procedure for intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation, anesthesia considerations are explored. Emphasizing precision, fluoroscopic guidance, and meticulous postoperative care, this section provides insights for surgeons and healthcare practitioners. Considerations for rehabilitation follow, addressing postoperative care, expected recovery timelines, and physical therapy recommendations. Early mobilization, weight-bearing guidelines, and a structured rehabilitation program play pivotal roles in recovery. In the conclusion, key findings are summarized, highlighting the efficacy of intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation, its advantages, and recommendations for clinical practice. Additionally, areas for future research are identified, guiding further exploration and refinement of this surgical approach. This review is valuable for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare practitioners involved in metatarsal fracture management, contributing to the evolution of treatment strategies and improving patient care.

[Translated article] Closed reduction and intramedullary fixation of fifth metacarpal neck fractures: Retrograde vs. anterograde technique. Prospective study

INTRODUCTION

The fifth metacarpal fracture is a frequent pathology that can cause deformity and functional impairment for the adequate grip of the hand. Reintegration into daily or working activities is related to the treatment received and rehabilitation. In fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, internal fixation with a Kirschner's wire is a conventional treatment method with variants that affect its outcome.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To compare the functional and clinical results of the treatment of fifth metacarpal fracture with the use of retrograde vs. antegrade Kirschner wires.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Comparative, longitudinal, prospective study at a third-level trauma centre in patients with a fifth metacarpal neck fracture, with clinical, radiographic and Quick DASH scale follow-up at the 3rd, 6th, and 8th postoperative week.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were included (58 men, 2 women), age of 29.63±10.15 years, with a fifth metacarpal fracture, treated by closed reduction and stabilisation with a Kirschner wire. The antegrade approach showed a metacarpophalangeal flexion range at 8 weeks of 89.11° (p<0.001; 95% CI [-26.81; -11.42]), a DASH scale value of 18.17 (p<0.001; 95% CI [23.45; 39.12]), and an average of 27.35 days to return to work (p=0.002; 95% CI [16.22; 62.14]), compared with the retrograde approach.

CONCLUSION

Stabilisation with antegrade Kirschner wire showed superior functional results, and metacarpophalangeal range of motion, compared to those operated via retrograde approach.

Closed reduction and intramedullary fixation of fifth metacarpal neck fractures: Retrograde vs. anterograde technique. Prospective study

INTRODUCTION

The fifth metacarpal fracture is a frequent pathology that can cause deformity and functional impairment for the adequate grip of the hand. Reintegration into daily or working activities is related to the treatment received and rehabilitation. In fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, internal fixation with a Kirschner's wire is a conventional treatment method with variants that affect its outcome.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To compare the functional and clinical results of the treatment of fifth metacarpal fracture with the use of retrograde versus antegrade Kirschner wires.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Comparative, longitudinal, prospective study at a third-level trauma center in patients with a fifth metacarpal neck fracture, with clinical, radiographic and Quick DASH scale follow-up at the 3rd, 6th, and 8th postoperative week.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were included (58 men, 2 women), age of 29.63±10.15 years, with a fifth metacarpal fracture, treated by closed reduction and stabilization with a Kirschner wire. The antegrade approach showed a metacarpophalangeal flexion range at 8 weeks of 89.11° (p<0.001; 95% CI [-26.81; -11.42]), a DASH scale value of 18.17 (p<0.001; 95% CI [23.45; 39.12]), and an average of 27.35 days to return to work (p=0.002; 95% CI [16.22; 62.14]), compared with the retrograde approach.

CONCLUSION

Stabilization with antegrade Kirschner wire showed superior functional results, and metacarpophalangeal range of motion, compared to those operated via retrograde approach.