Closed reduction internal fixation rates and procedure times for metacarpal fractures treated in a minor surgery area before and after the introduction of a mini C-arm unit.

BACKGROUND: Mini C-arm units are compact, mobile, fluoroscopic imaging systems designed for real-time imaging of the extremities. They deliver the lowest possible radiation exposure to the patient and physician while minimizing operator effort and inconvenience.
METHODS: A retrospective chart review was undertaken for consecutive metacarpal fractures requiring internal fixation treated in the minor surgery centre before (n=100) and after (n=100) the introduction of the mini C-arm. Open versus closed approach, procedure time and total operating room time were recorded.
RESULTS: Before the introduction of the mini C-arm, the percutaneous rate was 48% and the average procedure and total operating room times were 55 min and 102 min, respectively. After mini C-arm implementation, the percutaneous rate increased to 59% and the average procedure and total times were 36 min and 78 min, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: The use of a mini C-arm increased the rate of successful closed reduction internal fixation and reduced the procedure time for metacarpal fractures treated in the minor surgery area.