Management of a metacarpophalangeal joint fracture using a dynamic traction splint and early motion

Dynamic traction and early motion have been used by hand therapists to treat proximal interphalangeal joint fractures with good results. However, metacarpophalangeal joint fractures have been neglected, perhaps because of their relative infrequency. The purpose of this case study is to report the authors' experience using dynamic traction in conjunction with early motion to treat a construction worker who fell from scaffolding and sustained a complex fracture of the left smallfinger proximal phalanx with involvement of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Range of motion of the patient's left small finger at discharge from therapy, approximately 22 weeks postoperatively, was as follows: metacarpophalangeal joint, hyperextension/65 (85 degrees passive flexion); proximal interphalangeal joint, 20/80 (5/90 passively); and distal interphalangeal joint, 0/50 (65 degrees passive flexion). The patient made a successful return to full-time construction work. The results of this case appear to support consideration of the use of dynamic traction and early motion for management of selected metacarpophalangeal joint fractures.