Comminuted, Imapacted Fractures at the Base of the Middle Phalanx of the Finger, Treated by Open Reduction and Internal Fixation: Short-Term Results in 38 Cases

Thirty-eight patients with comminuted and impacted fractures at the base of the middle phalanx of the finger involving, on average, 60% of the joint plateau were treated by open reduction, cancellous bone grafting as necessary and minimal internal and/or external fixation. The results were evaluated after a mean follow-up time of 14 months. All patients were satisfied with the outcome and returned to their previous occupations after nine weeks on average. Forty-two percent of patients achieved a good result (no pain, proximal interphalangeal joint flexion/extension better than 90°/–15°, full functional use and good radiographic appearance); 32% had an acceptable result and 13% an unsatisfactory global result. The quality of anatomical reconstruction was the most significant factor determining the final outcome.