title: A modified technique of using the dynamic external finger fixation system. Case study.
abstract: Fractures of the phalangeal joints of the hand present a challenging problem because of the small size of the fracture fragments, limiting internal fixation, and their articular nature necessitating early mobilisation to ensure good results. We present a case of a patient presenting with an open displaced intraarticular fracture of the metacarpophalangeal joint that was managed with limited internal fixation with a Kirschner wire along with the S-Quattro. The fracture united and the patient returned to his previous occupation with no limitations in his activities of daily living. This is the first instance of S-Quattro being described for the management of an open fracture with the additional use of limited internal fixation. The additional use of limited internal fixation ensured adequate fracture reduction and stabilisation. The S-Quattro application does not require significant soft tissue dissection, making it particularly suited to open fractures.
authors.affiliation: University College London Institute of Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LP, UK. wasimkhan@doctors.org.uk
authors.forename: Wasim S
authors.initials: WS
authors.lastname: Khan
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Smitham
authors.forename: Nabil R M
authors.initials: NR
authors.lastname: Fahmy
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001864:Bone Wires; D016267:External Fixators; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D057072:Intra-Articular Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D016896:Treatment Outcome