[External fixator of the wrist-temporary fixation]. / Fixateur externe am Handgelenk ­ temporäre Fixation.

OBJECTIVE: a) Fixed-angle bridging of the wrist between radius diaphysis and metacarpus by percutaneous or minimally invasively inserted threaded pins and a frame (fixator) placed above the skin level (external); b) retention of fracture fragments by ligamentotaxis; c) temporary stabilization after bone loss at wrist and distal forearm. INDICATIONS: a) Initial treatment of fractures near the wrist or soft tissue injuries in multiple trauma patients; b) fractures of the distal radius and the distal ulna; c) dislocation of the carpus; d) infections of the wrist; e) instability after resection in the wrist area; f) fractures with impending or manifest compartment syndrome; g) fractures with extensive loss of soft tissues and lacking coverage of implants. CONTRAINDICATIONS: a) Pathological changes at the site of pin application, as long as no alternative site is possible: infections, fractures, osteoporosis, tumors; b) fractures that are closed and not reduceable; c) exclusively intra-articular distal radius fractures; d) lack of compliance by the patient. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Insertion of two threaded pins into the radial shaft proximal to the radiocarpal joint and two pins into the second metacarpal bone. Assembly of the fixator frame in advance of the definitive reduction. Subsequently, final reduction and fixation in the desired position by tightening of the screws on the fixator frame. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Pin care and changes of wound dressing every 2-3 days RESULTS: Reliable, low complication procedure for temporary fixation of the wrist for many indications.

[Scaphoid pseudarthrosis : Complex reconstruction using vascularized bone grafts]. / Skaphoidpseudarthrose : Komplexe Rekonstruktionen mithilfe vaskularisierter Knochentransplantate.

The most important goals of scaphoid reconstruction in pseudarthrosis are correction of the humpback deformity, the realignment of the proximal carpal row and the bony union of the scaphoid. Therefore, in most cases bone grafting is required. To increase the healing rate and to improve vascularization, several kinds of vascularized bone grafts have been developed. Pedicled grafts are preferably harvested from the dorsal or palmar side of the distal radius with fusion rates between 27% and 100%. Free microvascular grafts can be obtained from the iliac crest and the medial or lateral femoral condyle with fusion rates between 60% and 100%. For their application microsurgical equipment and skills are required. Up to now osteochondral grafts from the femoral condyle offer the only chance for joint surface replacement by transferring part of the surface of the femoropatellar joint. The use of vascularized grafts is still a matter of controversy, since their superiority is still unproven compared to nonvascularized grafts, which also achieved 100% fusion rates in several series. They are indicated in secondary procedures after failed reconstruction and nonunion with small avascular proximal pole fragments. Since no evidence-based guidelines exist, this article provides an experience-based treatment algorithm for scaphoid nonunion with special consideration to vascularized bone grafts.

[Reconstruction of the middle phalangeal base of the finger using an osteocartilaginous autograft from the hamate]. / Rekonstruktion der Mittelgliedbasis am Finger durch ein osteochondrales Transplantat vom Os hamatum.

OBJECTIVE: Restoration of proximal interphalangeal joint stability with preservation of mobility by reconstruction of the middle phalanx base using an osteochondral graft from the carpometacarpal joint surface of the hamate. INDICATIONS: Acute and older isolated destruction of the palmar middle phalanx base >25%. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Destruction of the head of the proximal phalanx, advanced chondropathia of the head of the proximal phalanx, extensive soft tissue injury with loss of skin coverage at the proximal interphalangeal joint. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: The fractured middle phalangeal base is debrided and the defect is replaced by a size-matched autograft from the dorsal carpometacarpal hamate osteoarticular surface that is secured in place with miniscrews. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Immobilization for 2 weeks in a below-elbow cast in intrinsic plus position. Subsequent immobilization by a splint including the distal and proximal interphalangeal joint. RESULTS: Healing was achieved in 100% with restoration of joint congruity in 12 of 13 cases and slight subluxation in 1 case. Follow up was possible in 9 cases after 22 ± 16 (5-51) months. The average range of motion in the reconstructed joint achieved 0/9/73°, grip strength 82% of the unaffected side. Of the 9 patients, 5 developed a mild flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint. The DASH score achieved 4 ± 3 (0-8) points, pain at rest was 1 ± 2 (0-5), pain at exercise 2 ± 2 (0-5) on a visual analogue scale (0-10). All patients were satisfied and willing to undergo the procedure again. According to the literature, reconstruction of the base of the middle phalanx by using an osteochondral graft from the hamate is a reliable procedure to restore stability and mobility of the joint.

[Arthroscopy of the distal radioulnar joint]. / Die Arthroskopie des distalen Radioulnargelenks.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the procedure is to visualize the proximal pouch of the DRUJ, the joint surfaces of the sigmoid notch and the ulnar head, the convexity of the ulnar head and the proximal ulnar side surface of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). INDICATIONS: Arthroscopy of the distal radioulnar joint is applied for the evaluation of joint pathologies in ulnar-sided wrist pain, especially in cases without diagnostic findings in standard X­rays and MRIs and arthroscopically assisted procedures. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: In vertical extension, two portals of the wrist are created on the dorsal side of the DRUJ between the extensor digiti minimi and extensor carpi ulnaris tendons. By insertion of a small joint arthroscope via these portals visualization of the ulnar head, the sigmoid notch, the proximal pouch of the DRUJ and the proximal surface of the TFCC is accomplished. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopy of the DRUJ is a rarely and not routinely performed procedure for the diagnosis and therapy of ulnar-sided wrist pain. It is technical demanding with a flat learning curve and anatomy-related obstacles. A complete view of the joint is not always accessible. Rare complications are injuries of the extensor digiti minimi tendon, as well as contusion or sectioning of the transverse branch of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. In distinct cases, this procedure offers important additional information about the distal radioulnar joint. The procedure is especially valuable for the detection of proximal TFCC injuries that are missed otherwise.

[Treatment of necrosis of the lunate bone]. / Therapie der Lunatumnekrose.

BACKGROUND: There still is no standard therapy that predictably results in healing of avascular necrosis of the lunate bone. Nevertheless, there exists a wide spectrum of operative treatment options for different stages. OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the treatment options for necrosis of the lunate bone and proposes algorithms based on the age of the patient and condition of the lunate bone and the wrist. METHODS: Surgical treatment options for necrosis of the lunate bone can be divided into relieving or revascularization procedures and salvage procedures. RECOMMENDATIONS: For patients under 20 years old the treatment of choice is prolonged immobilization, in cases of non-response or progression, minimally invasive and relieving procedures are used. In adult patients with limited affection of the lunate bone the first therapeutic approach should also be immobilization. If in progressive disease or advanced stages only the lunate bone is compromised but reconstructable, restoration should be considered. In progressive collapse of a non-reconstructable lunate bone the therapeutic efforts shift to mobility-preserving procedures utilizing still functional articulations of the wrist. If all functional articulations are lost only classical salvage procedures are feasible. CONCLUSION: According to the presented algorithms a stage-dependent therapy of necrosis of the lunate bone is possible. It should not be ignored that there are still no scientific and evidence-based arguments for some of these treatment options. This is also true for maximally invasive procedures, where superiority to more simple procedures have not been proven. Therefore, their application should be restricted and based on an individual decision.

[Arthrodesis of the trapeziometacarpal joint]. / Die Arthrodese des Daumensattelgelenks.

OBJECTIVE: Bony fusion of the trapeziometacarpal joint. INDICATIONS: High demands concerning stability and strength of the thumb in primary or secondary osteoarthritis (e.g., posttraumatic osteoarthritis following injuries to the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb); instability in the absence of osteoarthritis due to malformations, ligamentous laxicity, and joint hypermobility; malformations; improvement of hand function in neurological disorders; salvage procedure after carpometacarpal arthroplasty provided bone stock is sufficient. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Osteoarthritis or stiffness of adjacent joints, activities demanding maximal mobility of the thumb, insufficient bone stock. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Resection of the articular surfaces of the trapeziometacarpal joint via a dorsal approach. After temporary K­wire transfixation, application of a dorsal T­shaped plate (fixed angled or not), replacement of the K­wire with a lag screw. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Immobilization for 8 weeks (radial below-elbow cast including the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint); standard radiographs on second postoperative day and after 8 weeks; removal of stitches after 2 weeks; with bony healing after removal of the cast, guided exercises to increase strength and mobility; full loading for manual tasks after 3 months. RESULTS: With regards to strength, stability, and pain reduction, results are rated as good and excellent with a high degree of patient satisfaction. Disadvantages are implant-related complications and nonhealing of the fusion in an average of 13% of patients. Nevertheless, the procedure is still indicated in young manual workers who tolerate some limitations of mobility.

[Treatment of recurrent Dupuytren's disease]. / Rezidiveingriffe beim Morbus Dupuytren.

BACKGROUND: The tendency of recurrence or progression is a frequent problem in Dupuytren's disease. The management of recurrence is adapted to the individual situation and the patient's needs. In mild cases a non-operative approach is recommended. Revision surgery is reserved for disabling situations with acceptable circulation and sensation in absence of dystrophy. It is complicated by a combined formation of scar tissue and new cords. This increases the risk of soft tissue loss and injuries to the neurovascular bundles, which impair sensation and circulation and may result in loss of the finger. TECHNIQUE: The strategy consists of preoperative planning of the soft tissue reconstruction, meticulous preparation of the neurovascular bundles, arthrolyses and skin closure by Z­plasty or transposition flaps. The corrective arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint may be an alternative to improve function without the risks of revision surgery. In cases of severe impaired circulation, sensation or dystrophy of the finger, amputation or ray resection may be indicated.

[Suture techniques and material in surgery of flexor tendons]. / Nahttechniken und Nahtmaterial in der Beugesehnenchirurgie.

Adhesions and scar formation between flexor tendons and the surrounding tissue are only contemporarily avoidable by movement of flexor tendons. Concepts with active follow-up protocols are more favorable than passive mobilization. The main risks of flexor tendon repair are rupture of the tendon suture, insidious gap formation and resistance to tendon gliding within the tendon sheath. Currently, there is no consensus with respect to the optimal suture technique or suture material. Nevertheless, there are some principles worth paying attention to, such as using stronger suture material, blocking stitches, suture techniques with four or more strands as well as circular running sutures. A technically acceptable compromise, even for the less experienced, is currently the four-strand suture combined with a circular running suture. It maintains sufficient stability for active motion follow-up protocols without resistance.

Diagnosing central lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage as traumatic or degenerative: a review of clinical accuracy.

This study examined the reliability of surgeons' estimations as to whether central lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage complex were traumatic or degenerative. A total of 50 consecutive central triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions were independently rated by ten experienced wrist surgeons viewing high-quality arthroscopy videos. The videos were reassessed after intervals of 3 months; at the second assessment surgeons were given the patient's history, radiographs and both, each in a randomized order. Finally, the surgeons assessed the histories and radiographs without the videos. Kappa statistics revealed fair interrater agreement when the histories were added to the videos. The other four modalities demonstrated moderate agreement, with lower Kappa values for the assessment without videos. Intra-rater reliability showed fair agreement for three surgeons, moderate agreement for two surgeons and substantial agreement for five surgeons. It appears that classification of central triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions depends on the information provided upon viewing the triangular fibrocartilage complex at arthroscopy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

[Acute scaphoid fractures : Management under consideration of the new S3-level guideline]. / Die frische Skaphoidfraktur : Management unter Berücksichtigung der neuen S3-Leitlinie.

BACKGROUND: Scaphoid fractures represent the most common carpal fractures and are often problematic and frequently lead to nonunion with osteoarthritis and collapse of the wrist. The reasons for the nonunion are manifold. Therefore, the main goal of diagnosis and therapy of acute fractures is to achieve bony union and to restore the anatomic shape of the scaphoid. In the long run, only this can preserve the normal function of the wrist. METHODOLOGY: The given recommendations are based on the new S3-level guideline of the AWMF (Association of the Scientific Medical Societies). This guideline was established with involvement of all relevant medical societies based on a comprehensive and systematic review of the literature and after a process of formal consent. The focus of the guideline is recommendations regarding diagnosis and therapy of acute scaphoid fractures. MAIN STATEMENTS: After careful clinical examination consequent imaging must be performed, starting with X­rays in three standard projections. Computed tomography is indispensable for proof of a fracture and for therapy planning. The classification of Herbert and Krimmer is based on the CT under special consideration of instability and displacement of the fracture. Thus, indication for operative and non-operative treatment is mainly CT-dependent. Non-operative treatment may be indicated only for stable fractures (type A). However, operative treatment is strongly recommended for all unstable fractures (type B). For fixation, double-threaded headless screws are preferred. The operative technique depends on the fracture morphology. CONCLUSION: Diagnosis and therapy of acute scaphoid fractures are primarily aimed at the prevention of nonunion and arthritic carpal collapse with painful impairment of the wrist function. To achieve this, the S3-level guideline contains explicit recommendations.

[Arthroscopically assisted transcapsular refixation of the triangular fibrocartilage complex of the wrist]. / Die arthroskopisch unterstützte transkapsuläre Refixation des Discus triangularis am Handgelenk.

OBJECTIVE: Refixation of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) to the ulnar capsule of the wrist. INDICATIONS: Distal TFCC tears without instability, proximal TFCC intact. Loose ulnar TFCC attachment without tear or instability. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Peripheral TFCC tears with instability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Complex or proximal tears of the TFCC. Isolated, central degenerative tears without healing potential. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Arthroscopically guided, minimally invasive suture of the TFCC to the base of the sixth extensor compartment. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Above elbow plaster splint, 70° flexion of the elbow joint, 45° supination for 6 weeks. Skin suture removal after 2 weeks. No physiotherapy to extend pronation and supination during the first 3 months. RESULTS: In an ongoing long-term study, 7 of 31 patients who underwent transcapsular refixation of the TFCC between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2010 were evaluated after an average follow-up interval of 116 ± 34 months (range 68-152 months). All patients demonstrated an almost nearly unrestricted range of wrist motion and grip strength compared to the unaffected side. All distal radioulnar joints were stable. On the visual analogue scale (VAS 0-10), pain at rest was 1 ± 1 (range 0-2) and pain during exercise 2 ± 2 (range 0-5); the DASH score averaged 10 ± 14 points (range 0-39 points). All patients were satisfied. The modified Mayo wrist score showed four excellent, two good, and one fair result. These results correspond to the results of other series. CONCLUSION: Transcapsular refixation is a reliable, technically simple procedure in cases with ulnar-sided TFCC tears without instability leading to good results.

[Subtalar arthrodesis]. / Die Arthrodese des Subtalargelenks.

OBJECTIVE: Realignment and stabilization of the hindfoot by subtalar joint arthrodesis. INDICATIONS: Idiopathic/posttraumatic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis of the subtalar joint with/without hindfoot malalignment. Optional flatfoot/cavovarus foot reconstruction. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Inflammation, vascular disturbances, nicotine abuse. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Approach dependent on assessment. Lateral approach: Supine position. Incision above the sinus tarsi. Exposure of subtalar joint. Removal of cartilage and breakage of the subchondral sclerosis. In valgus malalignment, interposition of corticocancellous bone segment; in varus malalignment resection of bone segment from the calcaneus. Reposition and temporarily stabilization with Kirschner wires. Imaging of hindfoot alignment. Stabilization with cannulated screws. Posterolateral approach: Prone position. Incision parallel to the lateral Achilles tendon border. Removal of cartilage and breakage of subchondral sclerosis. Medial approach: Supine position. Incision just above and parallel to the posterior tibial tendon. Removal of cartilage and breakage of subchondral sclerosis. Stabilization with screws. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Lower leg walker with partial weightbearing. Active exercises of the ankle. After a 6­week X­ray, increase of weightbearing. Full weightbearing not before 8 weeks; with interpositioning bone grafts not before 10-12 weeks. Stable walking shoes. Active mobilization of the ankle. RESULTS: Of 43 isolated subtalar arthrodesis procedures, 5 wound healing disorders and no infections developed. Significantly improved AOFAS hindfood score. Well-aligned heel observed in 34 patients; 5 varus and 2 valgus malalignments. Sensory disturbances in 8 patients; minor ankle flexion limitations. Full bone healing in 36 subtalar joints, pseudarthrosis in 4 patients.

[The volar locking plate for extension fractures of the distal radius]. / Die palmare winkelstabile Plattenosteosynthese bei Extensionsfrakturen des distalen Radius.

OBJECTIVE: Bony healing of dislocated distal radius fractures after open reduction and internal stabilization by locking screws/pins using palmar approach. INDICATIONS: Extraarticular distal radius fractures type A2/A3, simple extra- and intraarticular fractures type C1 according to the AO classification, provided a palmar approach is possible. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Forearm soft tissue lesions/infections. As a single procedure if a volar approach not possible. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Palmar approach to the distal radius and fracture. Open reduction. Palmar fixation of the plate to radial shaft with single screw. After fluoroscopy, distal fragments fixed using locking screws. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Below-the-elbow cast for 2 weeks. Early exercise of thumb and fingers, wrist mobilization after cast removal. Complete healing after 6-8 weeks. RESULTS: Ten patients averaged 100% range of motion of the unaffected side after 43±21 months. No complications observed. DASH score averaged 12±16 points; Krimmer wrist score was excellent in 7, good in 2, and fair in one.

[The lateral-dorsal transposition flap for closure of a palmar soft tissue defect of the proximal phalanx on the little finger after limited fasciectomy in recurrent Dupuytren's contracture]. / Laterodorsaler Transpositionslappen zum Verschluss eines Weichteildefekts am palmaren Kleinfingergrundglied nach Auflösung einer Dupuytren-Rezidivbeugekontraktur.

OBJECTIVE: Closure of a palmar soft tissue defect of the proximal phalanx after limited fasciectomy in recurrent Dupuytren's contracture. INDICATIONS: A palmar soft tissue defect between the distal flexion crease of the palm and the flexion crease of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) after limited fasciectomy in Dupuytren's contracture. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Scars at the lateral-dorsal portion of the proximal phalanx (e.g., after burns). SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Modified incision after Bruner ("mini-Bruner"). Removal of the involved fascial cord. If necessary, arthrolysis of the PIP. Raising the lateral-dorsal transposition flap from distal to proximal and rotating it into the palmar soft tissue defect of the proximal phalanx. Closure of the donor site with a skin transplant. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Dorsal plaster of Paris with extended fingers and compressive dressing in the palm for 2 days. Afterwards static dorsal splint and daily physiotherapy. RESULTS: Between 2002 and 2007, a total of 32 lateral-dorsal transposition flaps in 30 patients with recurrent Dupuytren's disease of the little finger underwent surgery. In a retrospective study, 19 patients with 20 flaps were available for follow-up evaluation after a mean of 6 years. All flaps had healed. The median flexion contracture of the metacarpophalangeal joint was 0° (preoperatively, 20°), and of the PIP 20° (preoperatively, 85°) according to Tubiana stage 1 (preoperatively, Tubiana stage 3). The median grip strength of both the operated and the contralateral hand was 39 kg. The DASH score averaged 11 points. Overall, 11 patients were very satisfied, 6 patients were satisfied, 1 patient was less satisfied, and 1 patient was unsatisfied.

[Ligament reconstruction for lunotriquetral instability using a distally based strip of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon]. / Die Bandersatzplastik bei lunotriquetraler Instabilität mit einem distal gestielten Streifen der Extensor-carpi-ulnaris-Sehne.

OBJECTIVE: Stabilization of the lunotriquetral junction. INDICATIONS: Dynamic and static chronic instability without fixed dislocation of the carpals. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Chronically fixed dislocation of the carpals, ulnar impaction syndrome, osteoarthritis of the joint between hamate and triquetrum and other parts of the wrist joint, rheumatoid arthritis, chondrocalcinosis. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Restoration of the palmar portion of the lunotriquetral ligament using a distally based strip of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon with temporary fixation of the lunotriquetral junction with K-wires. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Immobilization for 8 weeks with a radial cast that includes the first metacarpophalangeal joint. Removal of the K-wires after 8 weeks and exercise. RESULTS: The procedure with rare complications reliably restores stability of the lunotriquetral junction. Reduction of grip strength, pain during exercise, and a reduced range of motion persist. Overall, the results are predominantly good and excellent.

[Tenolysis of the flexor tendons in the hand]. / Tenolyse der Beugesehnen an der Hand.

BACKGROUND: Properly gliding flexor tendons is mandatory for the normal functioning of the finger and thumb. Any damage to tendons, tendon sheath or adjacent tissue can lead to the formation of adhesions that inhibit the normal gliding function. If adhesions limit the digital function and adequate hand therapy does not provide further progress, then surgical intervention should be considered. AIM: The authors' strategy and treatment algorithm for flexor tenolysis are presented in the context of the current literature. METHODS: There is no absolute indication for flexor tenolysis. The decision should be made in a motivated patient who has access to adequate postoperative hand therapy. It should be based on healed fractures and osteotomies, mature soft tissue coverage, intact tendons and gliding tissues, and a full range of passive flexion, and preferably extension of the affected joints. The principle of flexor tenolysis is the consequent resection of all adhesive tissue around the tendon inside and outside the tendon sheath, with preservation of as many pulley sections as possible. Therefore, extensive approaches are frequently necessary. Arthrolysis and the resolution of unfavorable scars, the resection of scarred lumbricals, and pulley reconstruction are additional procedures that are frequently performed. RESULTS: In the literature, improvement in the range of motion is between 59 and 84 %. Good and excellent functional results are reported in 60-80 % of the cases. Nevertheless, in selected cases, functional deterioration occurs. Flexor tendon ruptures after tenolysis were observed in 0-8 % of the patients. DISCUSSION: With regard to complications such as secondary tendon ruptures, loss of pulleys, and scar formation, flexor tenolysis is part of a reconstructive ladder that includes further procedures. In the case of failure or complications, salvage procedures such as arthrodesis, amputation, and ray resection or staged flexor tendon reconstruction including tendon grafting are recommended. After successful flexor tenolysis long-term hand therapy for at least 3-6 months is mandatory to maintain the intraoperative gain of function.

[Arthroscopy of the distal radioulnar joint]. / Die Arthroskopie des distalen Radioulnargelenks.

OBJECTIVE: Insertion of a small joint arthroscope into the proximal and distal parts of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) allows visualization of the proximal pouch of the DRUJ, the joint surfaces of the sigmoid notch and the ulnar head, the convexity of the ulnar head and the proximal ulnar-sided surface of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). INDICATIONS: Evaluation of joint pathologies in ulnar-sided wrist pain, especially in cases without diagnostic findings in standard X-rays and MRI, suspected cartilage lesions without osteochondral changes (signs of osteoarthritis), undefined swelling of the DRUJ in suspected synovitis, removal of loose bodies and arthroscopical synovialectomy, suspected lesions of the deep part of the TFCC, respectively foveal avulsions, wear or superficial tears of the proximal TFCC and arthroscopic-assisted ulnar shortening. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Significant changes of the local topographical anatomy, extensive scar formation, ulna plus variance, local infection or open wounds, affected sensibility in the area of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve, fractures of the sigmoid notch or the ulnar head, capsular tears causing effusion of irrigation fluid. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: In vertical extension of the wrist, two portals are created on the dorsal side of the DRUJ between the extensor digiti minimi and extensor carpi ulnaris tendons. Partial visualization of the ulnar head, the sigmoid notch, the proximal pouch of the DRUJ, and the proximal surface of the TFCC. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Following isolated diagnostic arthroscopies immobilization of the wrist in a semicircular ulnar-sided cast for 1 week. No extensive load to the wrist for 4 weeks. RESULTS: Still rarely performed procedure for diagnosis and therapy of ulnar-sided wrist pain. Technically demanding with a flat learning curve and anatomy-related obstacles. A complete view of the joint is not always accessible. Rare complications are injuries of the extensor digiti minimi tendon as well as contusion or sectioning of the transverse branch of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. In distinct cases this procedure offers valuable additional information about the distal radioulnar joint.

[Injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joint]. / Verletzungen der Mittelgelenke.

BACKGROUND: Injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP joint) are common. They are frequently underestimated by patients and initial treating physicians, leading to unfavorable outcomes. Basic treatment includes meticulous clinical and radiological diagnosis as well as anatomical and biomechanical knowledge of the PIP joint. TREATMENT: In avulsions of the collateral ligaments and the palmar plate with or without involvement of bone, nonoperative treatment is preferred. Operative stabilization is reserved for large displaced bony fragments or complex instabilities. In central slip avulsion or rupture, osseous refixation, suture, or reconstruction is common and nonoperative treatment is limited to special situations like minimally displaced avulsions. In basal fractures of the middle phalanx, elimination of joint subluxation and restoration of joint stability are priority. If the fragments are too small for fixation with standard implants, therapeutic alternatives include refixation of the palmar plate, dynamic distraction fixation, percutaneous stuffing, or replacement by a hemihamate autograft. Early motion is initiated regardless of the treatment regime. Undertreatment leads to persistent swelling, instability, and limited range of motion, which are difficult to treat. Contributing factors are unnecessary immobilization, immobilization in more than 20° flexion or transfixation by K-wires. For residual limitations, nonoperative treatment with physiotherapists and splinting is first choice. Operative treatment is reserved for persistent flexion/extension contractures persisting for more than 6 months, as well as reconstructions in boutonniere and swan neck deformity and salvage procedures for destroyed joints.

[Malunion of the distal radius - long-term results after extraarticular corrective osteotomy]. / Die fehlverheilte distale Radiusfraktur - Langzeit-ergebnisse nach extraartikulärer Korrekturosteotomie.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Numerous reports on short- and mid-term results demonstrate the value of corrective osteotomies for malunion of the distal radius. However, only long-term results can show whether a procedure has stood the test of time. Therefore the main questions to be answered in this article are: (i) are clinical and radiological improvements, recorded at short- and mid-term follow-up, long lasting? (ii) are consecutive procedures required, especially salvage procedures?; and (iii) what about the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis? PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study is based on the prospective data of 17 patients who underwent an extraarticular corrective osteotomy of the distal radius for symptomatic malunion (13 dorsal and 4 palmar malunions) between August 1992 and August 2003. The corrective osteotomy was performed as an opening wedge osteotomy filling the gap with an iliac crest bone graft and stabilisation of the radius with a plate. In 16 patients the radius was approached from palmar, in one patient the approach was dorsal. Preoperative, at short-term and at long-term postoperative follow-up clinical and radiological examinations were performed. In dorsal malunion the mean short-term follow-up was 17±10 (range: 7-44) months, and the mean long-term follow-up was 157±51 (120-254) months. In palmar malunion, the short-term follow-up averaged 13±6 (7-20) months, and the long-term follow-up 150±10 (138-166) months. RESULTS: All osteotomies showed bony union. One patient had to be excluded from the long-term evaluation due to wrist fusion and ulnar head hemiresection after 15 years. After dorsal malunion the long-term results showed a lasting improvement for all parameters. A comparison of short-term and long-term results revealed no deterioration of the results but a further statistically significant improvement in grip strength. 7 patients had no osteoarthritis, 3 osteoarthritis 1°, 1 osteoarthritis 2°, and 1 osteoarthritis 3°. After palmar malunion improvements occurred and lasted in the long-term run, but were not statistically significant. In this group no osteoarthritis was present. CONCLUSION: Corrective osteotomy for malunion of the distal radius has stood the test of time even in the long-term course. Even from this point of view, it can be recommended.

[Extensor digitorum longus transfer in flexible overlapping fifth toe deformity]. / Transfer der Extensor-digitorum-longus-Sehne zur Behandlung des flexiblen Digitus quintus varus superductus.

OBJECTIVE: Pain relief through realignment of the fifth toe by dorsomedial capsular release at the fifth metatarsophalaneal joint and transfer of the extensor digitorum longus tendon to the aponeurosis of the abductor digiti quinti muscle. INDICATIONS: Flexible overlapping fifth toe deformity. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Fixed deformity. Angular toe deformity distal to the metatarsophalangeal joint (e.g. delta phalanx). Lateral drift of all lesser toes. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Dorsolateral approach to the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint. Release of the dorsomedial capsule. Tenotomy of the fifth extensor digitorum longus tendon at the dorsum of the foot. Transfer of the distally based tendon around the proximal phalanx to the aponeurosis of the abductor digiti quinti muscle. Correction of the deformity by tensioning the tendon graft appropriately. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Ambulation with full weightbearing in a postoperative shoe. Toe alignment dressing for 6 weeks. RESULTS: A total of 48 patients (56 feet; average age 37 years) with a flexible overlapping fifth toe deformity were followed up after soft tissue release and transfer of the extensor digitorum longus tendon; 40 patients (48 feet) were re-evaluated clinically after 11.4 months (range 9-26 months). Postoperative complications were sensory disturbance at the lateral side of the fifth toe (n = 5), superficial wound slough (n = 3). Follow-up results included broad and hypertrophic scars at the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint (n = 16), physiological alignment of the fifth toe in 37 feet (77.1%), overcorrection (interdigital space 4/5 > 3 mm) in 4 feet (8.3%), undercorrection in 7 feet (14.6%). In 4 feet the undercorrection could be attributed to a Tailor's bunion deformity, which was not treated appropriately.