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Fractures of the distal phalanges
D J DaCruz1, R J Slade, W Malone
1Department of Accident and Emergency Medicine, Leicester Royal Infirmary.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Distal phalangeal fractures show poor recovery rates; less than one-third of patients heal fully within six months. Factors like osteolysis and subungual hematomas indicate a worse prognosis for these finger fractures.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Fractures of the distal phalanx are common hand injuries.
- Understanding recovery timelines and prognostic factors is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the recovery and union rates of distal phalangeal fractures at six months.
- To identify factors associated with a poor prognosis in these injuries.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted involving 110 patients diagnosed with distal phalangeal fractures.
- Data on patient recovery, fracture union, and specific injury characteristics were collected over a six-month period.
Main Results:
- Less than one-third of patients achieved full recovery by the six-month mark.
- Fewer than half of the distal phalangeal fractures showed complete union within the same timeframe.
- Osteolysis of fractured fragments, subungual hematomas, and fracture non-union were identified as indicators of a poor prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Distal phalangeal fractures have a prolonged recovery period, with many patients not fully recovered or united by six months.
- Early identification of poor prognostic factors is essential for setting patient expectations and guiding treatment strategies.