Mini-fragment applications for lower extremity long bone fractures: A narrative review

Mini-fragment systems (2.0, 2.4 and 2.7 mm) have evolved from fixation of just hand and foot fractures to have become an indispensable component of complex fracture fixation all over the appendicular skeleton. Surgeons currently use mini-fragment fixation in provisional fixation capacities, as adjunctive fixation to larger fixation constructs and in isolation in select situations. The versatility and popularity of these implants is far reaching, even in the lower extremity long bones, where their usage may be somewhat non-intuitive. In this narrative review we delineate the rationale for the use of these implants. We then illustrate several applications for these implants throughout the lower extremities that have proven useful.