title: Static external fixation of finger fractures.
abstract: In spite of its similar design constructs, external fixation of finger fractures differs greatly from that of long bones. Besides its common indications in massive, high-energy trauma, and contaminated fractures, it offers true alternatives to open reduction and internal fixation and represents a superior treatment modality in well-selected cases of extensive comminution. Further pending improvement in design will increase its application, although it apparently does not yet resolve long-standing controversies in elective fracture care.
authors.affiliation: Section of Hand Surgery, University of Berne, Switzerland.
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Nagy
mesh_terms: D002985:Clinical Protocols; D004867:Equipment Design; D016267:External Fixators; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D017102:Fracture Healing; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005596:Fractures, Closed / Q000601:surgery; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000601:surgery; D005599:Fractures, Ununited / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D016896:Treatment Outcome