Percutaneous Intramedullary Reduction Technique for Impacted Middle Phalanx Base Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint injuries frequently cause finger functional deficits, impacting range of motion and grip strength.
• Impacted intra-articular fractures and fracture dislocations of the middle phalanx base present treatment challenges due to difficult joint reduction and achieving articular congruity.
• Despite existing treatment algorithms, the delicate PIP joint often results in incomplete function, leading to post-traumatic pain, stiffness, and osteoarthritis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a percutaneous intramedullary reduction technique for impacted middle phalanx fractures.
• To evaluate this technique as a treatment option for achieving articular congruity with minimal surgical trauma.
• To identify suitable patient candidates for this minimally invasive approach.

Main Methods:

• Description of a percutaneous intramedullary reduction technique.
• Application of the technique for impacted middle phalanx fractures, including those with joint dislocation.
• Focus on achieving anatomical reduction and articular congruity.

Main Results:

• The percutaneous intramedullary reduction technique offers a method to address impacted middle phalanx fractures.
• This approach aims for improved articular congruity compared to traditional methods.
• Minimal surgical trauma is a key characteristic of this technique.

Conclusions:

• The described percutaneous intramedullary reduction technique is a viable option for selected patients with impacted middle phalanx fractures.
• This method facilitates the achievement of articular congruity, potentially improving functional outcomes.
• It represents a minimally invasive approach to managing challenging PIP joint fractures.