[Midterm results after sole percutaneous treatment for central impression fractures of the base of the middle phalanx].

PURPOSE: This study investigated the midterm results after sole percutaneous treatment for central depression fractures of the base of the middle phalanx. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 19 men and 2 women with an average age of 31.9 (18 - 57) years with a central depression fracture of the middle phalanx treated solely by intramedullary reposition with a bended K-wire and percutaneous K-wire fixation were followed on average of 13.2 (3 - 40) months.
RESULTS: At the time of the last follow-up, all patients were able to pursue their previous occupational activity as well as their usual leisure activities and were painfree (VAS 0). The postoperative active flexion of the affected PIP joint was 86° with an average extension deficit of 1° or 93 % of the range of motion of the uninjured PIPJ of the opposite side. Radiologically there was a nice remodeling of the articular surface with no osteoarthrosis. There were no pin-associated complications or wound healing disorders.
CONCLUSION: The sole intramedullary reduction with K-wire osteosynthesis is a suitable and reliable method for the treatment of the central impression fracture. Good functional results can be achieved with low surgical effort. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.