Management of Phalanges of Hand
Management of Phalanges of Hand
Abstract
Background: Due to their peripheral location, hand fractures are a common occurrence. The majority of phalangeal and metacarpal fractures are repaired conservatively. Open fractures, Multiple fractures, and intraarticular fractures all require operative reduction and stabilisation in order to achieve the best possible position for bone healing and early mobility. Objectives: A study of management of fractures of phalanges of hand with universal mini external fixator. Subjects and Methods: A total of 45 Patients with metacarpal and phalanges fracture of hand were included and fixed with UMEX. Every month, all cases are followed up on for up to 6 months. After adequate fracture healing, the implant is removed under local anesthetic. Results: Male predominance was seen with 84% and females were 16%. The male: female ratio was 5.42:1. around 58% had proximal phalanx fractures, metacarpal fractures was seen in 27% of the cases and middle phalanx fracture was seen in 16% of the cases. Type II fractures was reported in 20% of the cases and type I fracture was reported in 13% of the cases. Duration of UMEX fixator in situ was 3 to 5 weeks in 82% of the cases and 5 to 8 weeks in 17.77% cases. Complications were seen in 64% of the cases. The outcomes based on range of motion were excellent in 40% of the cases, good in 31% of the cases, Fair in 22% of the cases and poor in 7% of the cases. Conclusion: UMEX is an effective treatment option for open, intra-articular, and multiple unstable phalangeal and metacarpal fractures. It is straightforward to use, has a low complication rate, and may be utilised. The learning curve is rather short. It makes post-operative treatment of both injured finger and limb easier. It enables for early mobilisation, which helps to reduce joint stiffness.