Subcondylar fossa reconstruction for malunion of fractures of the proximal phalanx in children.
Subcondylar fractures of the proximal or middle phalanx occur at the neck of the phalanx, usually as a result of a crush injury, and almost exclusively in the pediatric age group. The distal fragment rotates dorsally and the degree of displacement may be misjudged if a true lateral radiograph is not obtained. If malunion occurs, there is a block to flexion. Subcondylar fossa reconstruction by removal of bone through a palmar approach removes this bony block. Three patients are presented in whom this procedure allowed an average increase in flexion of 41.7 degrees.
Simmons
B P
BP
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
Peters
T T
TT
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D014945:Wound Healing