minimally invasive technique for management of mallet finger fracture

ABSTRACT

A prospective study was conducted to evaluate the results of treatment of mallet fracture by extension-block Kirschner wire technique. Eighteen patients [15 males and 3 females] with an average age of 30.8 years [range, 19-50 years] were managed for acute mallet finger fracture by extension-block Kirschner wire fixation. According to Wehbe and Schneider classification [1984], there were four cases type IB, twelve type IIB, and two type IIC. All patients were followed-up for an average duration of 18.1 months [8-31 months]. Anatomical redaction was achieved in 89% of cases. Fixation was stable enough to allow early active movement of metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. The mean active range of motion of the distal interphalangeal was 1.1° hyperextension [range, 0° -7°] to 83.1° flexion [range, 55° - 96°]. Postoperative complications were detected in 11.1% of cases and included loss of reduction, extension lag, and some difficulties at work. There were no cases of infection, skin necrosis, comminution of the fragment or non-union. Using the Crawford rating scale, there were 15 cases excellent, 2 good, and one fair. Extension-block Kirschner wire fixation of mallet fracture simple, less invasive, and effective in obtaining closed anatomic reduction and maintaining it until union with less morbidity