Intramedullary fixation for fractures of the hand.
Twenty-seven fractures in 22 patients were treated with an intramedullary rod, introduced through the fracture fragments, without violating the joint surfaces. Twenty-six fractures united. There was one nonunion and one migration of the pin into the joint; there were no infections. Advantages of this procedure are (1) that it is quicker and easier to perform than a procedure requiring Kirschner wires or plates, (2) no special equipment is needed, and (3) motion can often be started as early as 10 days after the operation.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001858:Bone Nails / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D005594:Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006230:Hand Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged