A Percutaneous Triple K-Wire Fixation Technique for Nascent Malunion of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture-Dislocation: A Case Series With an Assessment of Functional Outcome.

Abstract

Purpose: Fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are difficult to manage. In the case of a 2- to 4-week delay in definitive treatment, a nascent malunion may result. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the percutaneous triple K-wire technique for treatment of the PIP joint nascent malunion.

Methods: We treated 13 patients with nascent malunion of PIP joint fracture-dislocations using the percutaneous triple K-wire fixation technique based on the principle of soft callus manipulation to achieve congruity and reduction in the joint. The study included cases where the percentage of articular involvement exceeded 40% and in whom there was a minimum follow-up of 12 months. At the final follow-up, we measured the range of motion at the PIP joint. The Ishida and Ikuta scores were determined.

Results: The mean period between injury and surgery was 17.2 days. The average follow-up time was 14.2 months. The mean active arc of motion before surgery in the PIP joint was 15 degrees and that at the final follow-up was 83 degrees. Seven patients achieved excellent outcomes according to the Ishida and Ikuta scores. The final postoperative range of motion at the PIP joint was comparable with that reported in the literature for patients who underwent different procedures.

Conclusions: This procedure can be considered a viable alternative to open reduction and plating, hemihamate arthroplasty, and ligamentotaxis with distraction, particularly in the presence of nascent malunion.

Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic IV.