A Functional Outcome of Closed Intra-articular Fracture of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint of Hand Managed By Suzuki Frame - A Longitudinal Study.

Abstract

Introduction: Closed intra-articular fractures of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are difficult to manage because of the small articular surface, joint instability, and risk of post-operative stiffness. Dynamic external fixation using the Suzuki frame aims to restore joint congruity while permitting early mobilization and functional recovery.

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the functional outcomes of closed intra-articular PIP joint fractures of the hand managed with Suzuki frame fixation.

Materials and methods: This prospective study included 32 patients with closed intra-articular PIP joint fractures treated using the Suzuki dynamic external fixation frame. One patient was lost to follow-up; therefore, 31 patients were included in the functional outcome analysis. Patients were followed for 12 weeks. Functional outcomes were assessed using PIP joint range of motion (ROM), quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (QuickDASH) score, and post-operative complications.

Results: The majority of patients were male (78.1%) aged 17-30 years (56.3%). Slip and fall (43.8%) was the most common mechanism of injury. Mean ROM improved significantly from 42.5° ± 8.3° at 6 weeks to 110.6° ± 9.2° at 12 weeks (P < 0.001). The mean QuickDASH score improved from 99.0 ± 0.0 at 6 weeks to 14.9 ± 4.5 at 12 weeks (P < 0.001). Most patients (81.3%) had no post-operative complications, with only one case each of extensor lag and non-union, and no pin-tract infection or joint instability.

Conclusion: Suzuki frame fixation provides excellent short-term functional recovery in closed intra-articular PIP joint fractures by allowing early mobilization, restoring joint motion, and maintaining low complication rates. It is a safe, minimally invasive, and effective treatment option for unstable PIP joint fractures.