Intramedullary fixation for fractures of the hand

Twenty-seven fractures in 22 patients were treated with an intramedullary rod, introduced through the fracture fragments, without violating the joint surfaces. Twenty-six fractures united. There was one nonunion and one migration of the pin into the joint; there were no infections. Advantages of this procedure are (1) that it is quicker and easier to perform than a procedure requiring Kirschner wires or plates, (2) no special equipment is needed, and (3) motion can often be started as early as 10 days after the operation.