Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026
A Mouse Distraction Osteogenesis Model
Published on: November 14, 2018
Distraction for proximal interphalangeal joint contractures: long-term results
Shirzad Houshian1, Shan Shan Jing, Gholam Hussein Kazemian
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Braintree Community Hospital, Mid Essex, United Kingdom; The Department of Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Mid Essex, United Kingdom; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Joint distraction with external fixators effectively treats chronic post-traumatic proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contractures, improving range of motion with good long-term outcomes. Careful patient selection is key for successful treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Traumatology
- Rehabilitation medicine
Background:
- Chronic post-traumatic proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contractures limit hand function.
- Previous treatments for these contractures have shown variable success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the medium- to long-term efficacy of joint distraction using a unilateral external fixator for chronic traumatic PIP joint contractures.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-eight PIP joints in 94 patients with chronic flexion deformities were treated with external fixation.
- The average duration of joint distraction was 10 days, with a mean follow-up of 54 months.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in both active range of motion (average 67°) and joint extension (average 40°).
- No loss of motion occurred at the latest follow-up; younger patients showed slightly better outcomes.
- Minor complications included transient swelling and superficial pin-site infections, managed conservatively.
Conclusions:
- Unilateral external fixation is a safe and effective treatment for chronic traumatic PIP joint contractures.
- Predictable medium- to long-term functional improvements can be achieved.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring are essential for optimal results.
