Hand fracture is one of the most common fractures in the skeletal system. The study by Parviz Ahangar et al aimed to introduce a newly designed external fixator and assess the results of treatment of patients with unstable and complex fractures of the proximal and middle phalanges of the fingers with two treatment methods: "fixation with percutaneous pins (PCP) + splint" and “fixation with mini external fixator.”
In this prospective cohort study, patients with acute unstable and complex fractures of the proximal and middle phalanges of the second to fifth fingers were treated with two treatment methods, including "fixation with PCP + splint" and "the use of mini external fixator." At the final follow-up visit, union, pain, function, finger range of motion (ROM), and possible complications were considered.
Key findings of the study were:
• Among 52 patients included in the study, 33 cases were treated with a mini external fixator, and 19 patients underwent fixation with PCP and splint.
• All patients in both groups had a union, and none of them complained of pain during the final visit.
• Functional outcomes were good, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.
• The mini external fixator group had a significantly greater finger ROM (P=0.012), with a lower number of physiotherapy sessions (P=0.018).
• Patients returned to work more promptly (P=0.012).
The authors concluded – “As evidenced by the results of the present study, the treatment of unstable finger fractures with a mini external fixator had three advantages over routine treatment with pins and splints. It allows for earlier finger movement and improved ROM, requires fewer physical therapy sessions, and facilitates a quicker return to work. This mini external fixator is easy to use, accessible, non-bulky, and cost-effective, and it can be an effective treatment option for unstable and complex finger fractures.”
Level of evidence: II
Further reading:
A Novel Mini External Fixation Technique versus Percutaneous Pinning in the Treatment of Phalanx Fracture in Hand
Parviz Ahangar et al
Arch Bone Jt Surg. 2025;13(7):414-419
Doi: 10.22038/ABJS.2024.74859.3484
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