Fracture of the proximal phalanx of the little finger in children: a classification and a method to measure the deformity.
OBJECTIVE
To develop an improved method for measuring the deformity caused by fracture of the proximal end of the proximal phalanx of the little finger in children.


METHODS
A prospective case study.


METHODS
Regional hospitals with an orthopedic service.


METHODS
Forty-two children with a proximal phalangeal fracture of the little finger and 42 children without a phalangeal fracture, who acted as a control. The type of deformity resulting from the fracture was noted, and the angle of deformity was measured. Rotational deformities were measured clinically in all patients and angulation deformities were measured from radiographs. The deformities were graded and classified.


METHODS
Measurements of the fracture deformity before and after manipulation.


RESULTS
There were 38 ulnar angulation deformities, 26 dorsal angulation deformities, 10 ulnar rotation deformities, 3 palmar angulation deformities, 2 radial angulation deformities and 1 radial rotation deformity. The deformities could be graded into 6 different types.


CONCLUSIONS
The measurements of deformity made it possible to describe and classify isolated deformities and combinations of various deformities.
Shuaib
I
I
Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland.
D000293:Adolescent; D000886:Anthropometry; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008349:Manipulation, Orthopedic; D011403:Pronation; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012399:Rotation; D013165:Splints; D013484:Supination