Failure of Distal Locking Screws in an Intraarticular Distal Radius Fracture Treated with Volar Locking Plate Fixation

Distal radius fracture is one of the most common fractures treated in the orthopedic field. The application of locking plate principle to the distal radius has allowed comminuted distal radius fractures involving the articular surface to be effectively treated by open reduction and internal fixation. The authors experienced a case of failure of distal locking screws in an intraarticular distal radius fracture treated with volar locking plate fixation.

Comparison of Surgical Outcomes of Percutaneous K-Wire Fixation in Bony Mallet Fingers with Use of Towel Clip versus 18-Gauge Needle

PURPOSE: The purpose was to describe comparative analysis of the surgical outcome of percutaneous K-wire fixation of bony mallet fingers reduced with towel clip and 18-gauge needle. METHODS: We analyzed the bony mallet finger patients with more than twelve months follow-up after percutaneous K-wire fixation. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Eighteen fingers were treated with closed reduction using towel clip and 18 other fingers were treated with closed reduction using 18-gauge needle. RESULTS: Radiographs showed bony union and no subluxation in all cases after K-wire removal. The average extension lag was 2.8degrees/1.9degrees, and range of motion of distal interphalangeal joint was 70.3degrees/75degrees respectively. According to Crawford's criteria, excellent results were obtained in 9/11 fingers, good results in 8/7 fingers, and poor result in 1/0 finger, respectively. CONCLUSION: 18-gauge needle reduction in percutaneous K-wire fixation is considered less invasive and useful method for treatment of bony mallet finger with comparable results with towel clip reduction.