SHORT TERM RESULTS OF GIDDINS FRAME APPLICATION IN MANAGEMENT OF COMMINUTED INTRA-ARTICULAR BASE OF PHALANX FRACTURES AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Treatment for the comminuted intra-articular fractures of base of phalanxes remains a challenging problem in hand surgery. The outcomes are commonly associated with pain, stiffness, chronic instability and degenerative arthritis of proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints. We present our short term results in 12 consecutive patients suffering from these complex fractures treated by closed reduction and application of a dynamic external fixator (Giddins’s frame). The average range of movement achieved was 11–86 degrees and there were no serious complications. We used the construct with slight modification and in our experience this may be helpful to reduce the pin site infection. It is relatively simple, uses widely available equipment (K-wire), and compact thus allows more than one finger to be treated. Early return to work, good pain relief and high level of patient’s satisfaction was achieved. Our short term results were comparable to best previously published results. Based on our experience we recommend this easy technique to treat these complex fractures of IP joints.