Intramedullary headless compression screw fixation of the middle phalanx: tips, tricks, and pitfalls.

This report emphasizes careful consideration of surgical technique for intramedullary screw fixation in middle phalanx fractures. Highlighting pitfalls, particularly with K-wire placement, it suggests the antegrade trans-articular approach as superior, urging further research for improved patient outcomes.

En bloc resection and iliac crest bone grafting for giant cell tumor of the finger.

A case of a rapidly progressing giant cell tumor of the middle phalanx is presented. The patient underwent en bloc resection with iliac crest grafting and distal interphalangeal fusion. Surgical technique and patient's functional outcomes are described.

[Effectiveness of Kirschner wire fixation for proximal phalangeal bone avulsion fracture caused by A2 circular trochlea injury of flexor digitorum tendon].

Objective: To explore the mechanism, surgical method, and effectiveness of proximal phalangeal bone avulsion fracture caused by A2 circular trochlea injury of the flexor digitorum tendon. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 4 patients with proximal phalangeal bone avulsion fracture caused by A2 circular trochlea injury of flexor digitorum tendon admitted between May 2018 and September 2022. The patients were all male, the age ranged from 26 to 52 years, with an average of 33 years. The injured fingers included 1 case of middle finger and 3 cases of ring finger. The causes of injury were rock climbing of 2 cases and carrying heavy objects of 2 cases. Preoperative anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films and CT examination of the fingers showed a lateral avulsion fracture of the proximal phalanx, with a fracture block length of 15-22 mm and a width of 3-5 mm. The total active range of motion (TAM) of the injured finger before operation was (148.75±10.11)°. The grip strength of the middle and ring fingers was (15.50±2.88) kg, which was significantly lower than that of the healthy side (50.50±7.93) kg ( t=-8.280, P<0.001). The time from injury to operation was 2-7 days, with an average of 3.5 days. One Kirschner wire with a diameter of 1.0 mm was used for direct fixation through the fracture block, while two Kirschner wires with a diameter of 1.0 mm were used for compression fixation against the fracture block. The fracture healing was observed, and the TAM of the injured finger and the grip strength of the middle and ring fingers were measured. The finger function was evaluated according to the upper limb functional assessment trial standards of the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society. Results: The incisions all healed by first intention after operation. All patients were followed up 6-28 months, with an average of 19 months. X-ray films showed that all avulsion fractures of proximal phalanx reached bony union, and the healing time ranged from 4 to 8 weeks, with an average of 4.6 weeks. At last follow-up, the grip strength of the middle and ring fingers was (50.50±7.76) kg, which significantly improved when compared with preoperative one ( t=-8.440, P<0.001). The TAM of the injured finger reached (265.50±2.08)°, and there was a significant difference when compared with preoperative one ( t=-21.235, P<0.001). According to the upper limb functional assessment trial standards of the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society, the finger function was all evaluated as excellent in 4 cases. Conclusion: Using Kirschner wire fixation through bone blocks and external compression fixation of bone blocks for treating proximal phalangeal bone avulsion fracture caused by A2 circular trochlear injury of the flexor digitorum tendon can achieve good effectiveness.

Vertical mandibular asymmetry and hand measurements in patients in growth: cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the vertical mandibular ramus asymmetry and the hand measurements asymmetry in growing patients. Material and Methods: Panoramic radiographs and comparative radiographs of the right and left hands of 40 patients (14 males and 26 females) between 6 and 16 years old (mean age of 11.35±1.99 years) were evaluated. The total height of the mandibular ramus was measured, and the asymmetry index was calculated. The lengths of the proximal, middle and distal phalanges and the metacarpals of the five digits of both hands were measured and the absolute differences R-L were calculated for each one. Results: A statistically significant association between the presence of vertical mandibular ramus asymmetry and the presence of phalanges asymmetry FPII (p=0.016), FPIII (p=0.016), FPIV (p=0.033), FMIII (p=0.031) and FMIV (p=0.016) was observed. Conclusions: Mandibular asymmetry appears not to be isolated but also present in other body districts such as the phalanx bones. The total vertical asymmetry of the mandibular ramus showed an association with the asymmetry of the lengths of the FPIII, FMIII, FPIV, FMIV and FPII in growing individuals, with association between the side of mandibular asymmetry and the side of the phalanx's asymmetry. The asymmetry of this phalanges increases with increasing index of vertical mandibular ramus asymmetry.

[Two-Stage Reconstruction in Bony Finger Joint Defects - Long-Term Results]. / Zweizeitige Arthrodese bei knöchernen Fingergelenkdefekten ­ Langfristige Ergebnisse.

BACKGROUND: Bony defects in finger injuries and infections impose high demands on their treatment due to the close anatomic relationships. Ideally, the injuries are entirely treated in emergency care. Due to the mechanism of the accident, contaminated and compromised soft tissues are often present and set limits to single-stage treatment. We present the long-term subjective and functional results after two-stage reconstruction of bony finger joint defect injuries. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Over a period of 15 years, a total of 40 patients with 43 fingers were treated due to a defect injury in the phalanges. Initially, the finger was stabilised with Kirschner wires after debridement. After consolidation of the soft tissue, the bone was reconstructed in a subsequent operation by interposition of an iliac crest graft. Complications occurred in 9 patients. Twenty-five patients with 27 fingers were followed up for 10.3 years. Range of motion, length of the affected finger, and grip force, each in relation to the contralateral extremity, were recorded. In addition to a subjective assessment of the global result, the daily function was determined by means of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. RESULTS: Significant differences compared with the contralateral extremity (p<0.05) were found in length (70 mm; 91.0%) and total mobility of the affected finger (95°; 46.0%), hand span when the thumb was involved (202.5 mm; 93.4%), and power grip when one of the fingers was injured (30 kg; 84.1%). The DASH score was 4.2 points (0-55.8). Subjectively, 88% of patients were satisfied with the treatment outcome. CONCLUSION: In case of contaminated and compromised soft tissues, the two-stage treatment of bony defect injuries in finger joints by arthrodesis of the joint is a reliable treatment strategy. In the long run, it results in a very satisfactory function of the hand in everyday life although significant differences have been measured compared with the contralateral extremity.

Proximal phalanx flexor tendon tenodesis after severe frostbite in a rock climber.

A 32 year-old climber sustained a grade IV frostbite injury to the right hand which required amputation at the neck of the proximal phalanges of all the long fingers. To increase range of motion and strength in the remaining metacarpophalangeal joints, tenodesis of the flexor digitalis superficialis and profundus tendons onto the proximal phalanges was performed. Several revisions for removal of bony spurs, dorsal skin advancement flaps and web space deepening were necessary. After 2 years, the patient achieved 10-0-100° metacarpophalangeal joint range of motion in extension-flexion and could do full body-weight pull-ups on 1 cm deep holds, lift 50 kg on a 2 cm deep hold (normal contralateral side, 40 kg), climb up to F7a routes and use a mechanical 4-finger functional prosthesis.

Outcomes of Pediatric Proximal Phalanx Base Fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Extra-articular juxtaphyseal fractures of the proximal phalanx are among the most common finger fractures in children. Immobilization of the digit for 3 to 4 weeks after reduction of the fracture is the current standard of care. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate outcomes after intervention among pediatric proximal phalanx base fractures and establish radiographic criteria to guide management. METHODS: A multi-institutional retrospective review of skeletally immature patients treated for proximal phalanx juxtaphyseal fractures between 2002 and 2019 was conducted. Variables collected included Salter-Harris classification; initial, postreduction, early follow-up, and final angulation and displacement on the posterior-anterior and lateral radiographs; clinical rotational deformity at final follow-up; and method of treatment. Exclusion criteria included less than 3 weeks of follow-up; Salter-Harris III, IV, and V fractures; inadequate medical record details; and missing radiographs. RESULTS: Six hundred thirty-four fractures meeting the inclusion criteria were categorized into no reduction, closed reduction (CR), and surgical (OP) groups. Only CR and OP groups saw large decreases in angulation by 11.8° CR (95% confidence interval, 10.1 to 13.6) and 19.0° OP (95% confidence interval, 8.7 to 29.3). Closed reduction patients had a mean coronal angulation value of 6.1° at post-reduction, which was maintained with immobilization to 5.8° at final follow-up. At final follow-up, scissoring was noted, three in the no reduction and three in the CR group for an overall 0.93% rotational malalignment rate. DISCUSSION: Extra-articular proximal phalanx juxtaphyseal fractures rarely require surgical management and can typically be treated with or without CR, based on the degree of deformity, in the emergency department or clinical setting. Low rates of documented sequelae after nonsurgical management were seen in this cohort, allowing for establishment of treatment parameters that can result in clinically insignificant angular and rotational deformity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Cast versus Kirschner wire fixation in type II paediatric phalangeal neck fractures.

PURPOSE: To compare the outcomes of type II pediatric phalangeal neck fractures (PPNFs) treated with closed reduction and cast immobilization (CRCI) versus closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP), and evaluated the clinical efficacy of conservative versus surgical treatment of type II PPNFs via meta-analysis. METHODS: Patients aged ≤ 14 years with type II PPNFs were divided into conservative (CRCI) and operative (CRPP) groups. Radiographs measured angulation and translation; hand function was assessed with total active range of motion (TAM) and Quick-DASH. Complication rates were also compared between the groups. A meta-analysis of conservative versus operative treatment confirmed the clinical results. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 and R studio 3.0 with two-tailed, chi-squared, and Mann-Whitney U or t-tests, P < 0.05. Meta-analysis used fixed or random effects models, calculating mean differences and odds ratios for outcomes, and assessing heterogeneity with I2 and Q tests. RESULTS: Final angulation (3.4° ± 3.7° and 4.9° ± 5.4° vs. 3.6° ± 3.7° and 4.2° ± 4.3°) and displacement (6.3% ± 5.8% and 5.7% ± 4.7% vs. 5.8% ± 5.5% and 3.2% ± 4.2%) in the coronal and sagittal planes were not different statistically between the conservative and surgical groups (P > 0.05), but improved significantly compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). Although Quick-DASH scores were comparable in both groups (P = 0.105), conservatively treated patients had a significantly better TAM at the last follow-up visit (P = 0.005). The complication rates were 24.2% and 41.7% in the surgical and conservatively treated groups respectively (P = 0.162). However, the latter primarily experienced imaging-related complications, whereas the former experienced functional complications (P = 0.046). Our meta-analysis (n = 181 patients) also showed comparable functional (P = 0.49) and radiographic (P = 0.59) outcomes and complication rates (P = 0.21) between the surgical (94 patients) and conservative (87 patients) groups. CONCLUSIONS: Conservative and surgical treatments are both reliable and safe approaches for managing type II PPNF in children. However, conservatively treated patients generally experience similar radiographic outcomes, lower complication rates, and better functional outcomes than surgically treated ones.

Reverse dorsolateral proximal phalangeal island flap: Long-term results.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to present long-term follow-up results of the reverse dorsolateral proximal phalangeal island flap designed for reconstruction of large fingertip and pulp defects. METHODS: We examined 18 patients who underwent reverse dorsolateral proximal phalangeal island flap surgery to address ≥2.5 cm fingertip and pulp defects. Mean follow-up was 84.4 months. Sensitivity assessments were conducted using the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament and 2-point discrimination tests. Additionally, we evaluated finger joint active range of motion, complications and cold intolerance. RESULTS: Mild venous congestion was observed in 5 flaps. Significant differences were observed in 2-point discrimination and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament tests between the injured and contralateral sides, specifically in the flaps, the dorsal side of the middle phalanx, and the donor site. The flap's mean static 2-point discrimination was 8.3 mm. Restricted distal interphalangeal joint extension was observed in 2 cases. Total active motion with the flap was good or excellent in the injured fingers, but with a significant difference between injured and contralateral fingers. Additionally, 42% of the injured fingers exhibited hook nail deformity, and 2 patients reported cold intolerance. Despite these issues, most patients has high scores for the appearance and satisfaction aspects of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. CONCLUSION: In moderate or larger fingertip defects, the reverse dorsolateral proximal phalangeal island flap serves as an alternative for reconstructing both fingertip and pulp issues. However, this option involves sacrificing some sensation in the dorsum of the middle phalangeal finger and the donor area. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, therapeutic study.

Choosing the proper implant for extra-articular fractures of proximal phalanges: A study on 75 cases.

INTRODUCTION: Phalangeal fractures are the most common fractures of the hand and in particular the proximal phalanx of the long fingers is the most involved. These fractures can ben conservatively managed but, when the fracture pattern is considered unstable, surgical treatment is recommended. However, there is no consensus in literature about the proper surgical option for extra-articular proximal phalanx fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We compared clinical and radiographical results after treatment of 75 cases of extra-articular proximal phalanx fractures using three different surgical techniques: closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) with Kirschner wires (G1 group), open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with plates and screws or lag screws (G2 group), and closed reduction and intramedullary screw fixation (CRIMEF)(G3 group). RESULTS: We found no significant differences in term of union rate and time to fracture healing between the three groups. However, we found a significant reduction in time to return at work and in TAM at the final follow-up examination in G3 group (treated with CRIMEF) when compared with both G1 and G2. No differences in complications rate were found between three groups. DISCUSSION: The surgical variability in the management of extra-articular phalanx fractures create lacks on standard guide for treatment. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, our results showed good clinical and radiographical results with all the three surgical options. However, the closed reduction and internal fixation with intramedullary screws (CRIMEF) seems to be better in terms of time to return to work and TAM at the final follow-up, probably due to good primary stability and little risk of soft tissue adherence development.

Bilateral Dorsal Nail Curvature of the Thumb Distal Phalanx - A Case Report.

Congenital dorsal curvature of the distal phalanx has been previously described as 'reverse Kirner' or 'ski-jump' deformity. This report describes bilateral occurrence in the thumbs. A 13-year-old male presented with difficulty caring for his thumbnails and in picking up small objects. Examination showed dorsal curvature of the distal phalanges of both thumbs, with greater curvature of the right side. Radiographs showed wedge-shaped epiphyses and dorsal curvature without coronal plane deviation of the distal phalanges. There was objective and subjective decrease in function associated with lateral pinch and tripod grasp. The reported aetiopathogenesis for Kirner deformity cannot explain the observed dorsal curvature. The bilateral nature makes a secondary physeal cause unlikely and suggests an embryologic basis. Due to the noticeable deficits in function, operative intervention may be warranted. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

Middle-phalanx-base radiographic morphology and its clinical implications.

The aim of this study was to establish normative values for the teardrop angle at the base of the middle phalanx. Our results showed a consistent mean teardrop angle in the range of 50°-51°, with no statistically significant difference observed between digits.Level of evidence: III.

Primary lymphoma of bone of the little finger: a case report and review of the literature.

Primary lymphoma of bone (PLB) is a rare, malignant lymphoid proliferation within bone accounting for less than 3% of all malignant bone tumors. In this case report, a 61-year-old female with past medical history of gout presented with pain and swelling in her right little finger. Initial radiographs demonstrated periostitis and soft tissue swelling about the right little finger. She returned three months later with progressive pain. Subsequent MRI and repeat radiographs demonstrated near complete destruction of the right little finger middle phalanx and periostitis with marrow infiltration at the right long finger. Given the rapid progression of disease, the differential diagnosis consisted primarily of aggressive neoplastic processes. The little finger ray was amputated through the level of the metacarpophalangeal joint and histopathology demonstrated large neoplastic cells that stained positive with CD45, CD20, and PAX5, compatible with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. A subsequent normal bone marrow aspiration and PET-CT demonstrated no additional sites of disease, thus excluding secondary lymphoma to bone. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of polyostotic PLB involving the hand. PLB of the hands may be initially misdiagnosed due to its rarity and clinical presentation mimicking rheumatological disease. Clinical vigilance in concert with close imaging follow-up is required to make the diagnosis in a timely fashion. We also review the existing PLB hand literature which consists of five cases.

Development of a simplified new method of bone age estimation using three bones of the hand and wrist.

Though the Greulich and Pyle (GP) method is easy, inter-observer variability, differential maturation of hand bones influences ratings. The Tanner-Whitehouse (TW) method is more accurate, but cumbersome. A simpler method combining the above, such that it utilizes fewer bones without affecting accuracy, would be widely used and more applicable in clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: 1. Devising a simplified method utilizing three bones of the hand and wrist for bone age (BA) assessment. 2. Testing whether the 3 bone method gives comparable results to standard methods (GP,TW2,TW3) in Indian children. METHODS: Developmental stages and corresponding BA for radius, hamate, terminal phalanx (left middle finger) epiphyses combining stages from GP,TW3 atlases were described; BA were rated by two blinded observers. 3 bone method ratings were compared with the same dataset analyzed earlier using GP,TW2,TW3 (4 raters). RESULTS: Radiographs analysed:493 (Girls=226). Mean chronological age:9.4 ± 4.6 yrs, mean BA 3 bone:9.8 ± 4.8 yrs, GP:9.6 ± 4.8 yrs, TW3:9.3 ± 4.5 yrs, TW2:9.9 ± 5.0 yrs. The 3 bone method demonstrated no significant inter-observer variability (p = 0.3, mean difference = 0.02 ± 0.6 yrs); a strong positive correlation (p < 0.0001) with GP (r = 0.985), TW3 (r = 0.983) and TW2 (r = 0.982) was noted. Bland-Altman plots demonstrated good agreement; the root mean square errors between 3 bone and GP,TW3,TW2 ratings were 0.6,0.7,0.6 years; mean differences were 0.19,0.49,-0.14 years respectively. Greatest proportion of outliers (beyond ±1.96 SD of mean difference) was between 6 and 8 years age for difference in 3 bone and GP, and between 4-6 years for difference in 3 bone and TW3,TW2. CONCLUSION: The 3 bone method has multiple advantages; it is easier, tackles differential maturation of wrist and hand bones, has good reproducibility, without compromising on accuracy rendering it suitable for office practice.

Phalangeal sarcoidosis - A rare case report.

We report a case of a 57-year-old woman who presented a rapidly progressing swelling at the base of her right 4th finger, with imaging revealing non-specific lesions suggestive of a malignant tumoral process. Following imaging, resection-biopsy revealed a non-caseating granulomatous inflammatory infiltrate suggesting sarcoidosis. Digital sarcoidosis is an uncommon presentation of the disease, especially in the early stages and without systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are advised in order to prevent future complications.

Spontaneous improvement of bilateral clinodactyly of the little finger with trapezoidal phalanx: a case report with a 15-year follow-up.

Clinodactyly can be produced by a longitudinal epiphyseal bracket that generates either a 'delta' or 'trapezoidal' phalanx. We present a case with a 15-year follow-up of bilateral clinodactyly of the little finger, to emphasize a 'wait-and-see' approach as self-remodelling of his phalanges occurred during growth.