Suzuki frame results in the treatment of comminuted phalanx fractures

Abstract

Background: Comminuted fractures of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are one of the most difficult fractures to treat in hand surgery. Hooks and rubber traction frames are an easy way to do this for fractures. This study aims to describe the outcomes of patients with PIP joint fractures with rubber traction frames. Materials and Methods: The results of sixteen patients with PIP joint fractures between 2020 and 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Patient's age and sex, time between trauma and surgery, postoperative follow-up period, affected joint site, postoperative complications, PIP and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint range of motion, and cause of injury were recorded. Results: Ten (62.5%) patients were male and six (37.5%) patients were female in this study. The average age of patients was 28.50 ± 3.42 years. The average range of motion of the PIP joint at 12 months postoperatively was 4.88° to 86.25°. During that period, the patient's average range of motion of the DIP joint ranged from 4.38° to 86.25°. Malunion/nonunion and osteomyelitis were not seen in any patient. Conclusion: A pin and rubber traction frame is a safe and effective method for difficult phalanx joint fractures.

Keywords

• dislocation
• dynamic fixation
• fracture
• frame
• proximal interphalangeal joint