Operative Treatment of the Malunited Phalangeal Neck Fractures

Kang, Ho Jung; Koh, Young Gon; Ha, Joong Won; Kang, Eung Shick

Abstract

It is generally accepted that malunited phalangeal neck fracture in hands not only limits range of motion but also accelerates the onset of degenerative changes, with increasing pain and stiffness of the affected joint. When displaced or rotated phalangeal neck fracture presents within the first or second weeks, properly performed closed or open reduction with percutaneous pinning or internal fixation is excellent options with predictable results. Malaligned fractures that present later frequently cannot be readily reduced. Once fully united, treatment options have included corrective osteotomy if function is significantly impaired or if appearance is objectionable. We have followed 9 patients, who had operations for malunited phalangeal neck fractures. The average length of follow up was 27 months. The interval between injury and operation ranged from 4 weeks to 6 years, with a mean of 21 months. Sites of operation include thumbs(3 cases), 2nd fingers(1 case), 3rd fingers(2 cases), 4th fingers(2 cases) and 5th finger(1 case). For those cases with less than 8 weeks elapsed since the injury, osteoclasis of the fracture with fixation using K-wire or pull-out was carried out. For those cases with more than 8 weeks elapsed, realignment osteotomy followed by fixation with K-wire or miniscrew was used. Parameters for the evaluation of result include range of motion to within 10 degree of full range in each joint, deviation of the fingers during active maximum flexion and extension, the minimum distance between the tip of the finger pulp and the palm, full bony union, relief of pain and the subjective cosmetlc result. Excellent and good results were noticed in 7 cases. The best results can be achieved only with near-anatomic restoration of the joint surface and early active motion exercise. In conclusion, with careful patient selection and close attention to operative detail, operative treatment of malunited phalangeal neck fracture can be effective.