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Treating post-traumatic osteomyelitis of a metacarpal fracture with the 'mini-masquelet' procedure
1, Dept. of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, the Netherlands.
Background:
Post-traumatic osteomyelitis is a challenging complication after a fracture, requiring long-term treatment to prevent loss of function. One treatment strategy is the biphasic masquelet technique, focussing on both control of the infection and bone reconstruction. This technique is mainly used to treat defects of the long bones. Very little literature exists about the masquelet procedure for treatment of defects of smaller bones. We describe a case of post-traumatic osteomyelitis after a metacarpal fracture, treated with the 'mini-masquelet' technique.
Patient Case:
A 23-year old woman was treated with the masquelet procedure for osteomyelitis and bone loss following a metacarpal IV fracture of her right hand. After 29 weeks, she had full range of motion of both the hand and fingers.
Conclusion:
The 'mini-masquelet' technique as a strategy to treat osteomyelitis and reconstruct bone loss after a metacarpal fracture, can reduce potential loss of function and loss of quality of life. This technique appears to be widely applicable for treatment of complex hand injuries and osteomyelitis of the hand.
Insights
The mini-masquelet technique effectively treats post-traumatic osteomyelitis and bone loss in small bones, like the metacarpal. This innovative approach preserves hand function and quality of life after complex fractures.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Post-traumatic osteomyelitis is a severe complication following fractures, often leading to functional deficits.
- The biphasic masquelet technique is established for long bone reconstruction but less documented for smaller bones.
- Metacarpal fractures can result in osteomyelitis and significant bone loss, posing treatment challenges.
