A technique of distraction osteosynthesis in the hand

Moderate digital lengthening may be accomplished with a step osteotomy that preserves attached sleeves of periosteum. A new external fixation apparatus, the Mini-H-Fixator, allows gradual distraction and solid bone fixation after surgery and facilitates this operation. The advantage of this procedure is that it results in rapid bone formation in the osteotomy gaps, obviating the need for bone grafting.