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[External fixation for support in soft tissue reconstruction in hand surgery]
D Pennig1, T Gausepohl, R Lukosch
1Abteilung für Unfallchirurgie, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, St. Vinzenz-Hospitals, Köln.
Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Handchirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Mikrochirurgie Der Peripheren Nerven Und Gefasse : Organ Der V
|September 1, 1995
Summary
A mini fixator system effectively corrected hand flexion contractures, improving finger spread and grip strength. This method offers a safe and functional solution for patients with soft-tissue limitations.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Soft-tissue flexion contractures significantly impair hand function.
- Traditional correction methods may have limitations in gradual correction and joint stabilization.
Observation:
- A mini external fixator system was employed to address soft-tissue flexion contractures.
- The fixator facilitated gradual correction and maintained joint position post-release.
- It was used for contractures in the first web-space and multiple fingers.
Findings:
- The mini fixator system was removed after 4-6 weeks with no equipment-related complications.
- Significant improvement was observed in the spread from thumb to index finger tip (3.5 cm to 16.5 cm).
- Sustained grip strength improved to 82% of the uninjured contralateral side.
Implications:
- Mini fixator systems represent a viable tool for operative correction of hand flexion contractures.
- This approach enhances functional outcomes, including digital spread and grip strength.
- Further research can explore long-term efficacy and broader applications in hand reconstruction.