Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
10.4103/atr.atr_33_21
Abstract
The role of external fixators in hand injuries is well entrenched, especially in complex, comminuted phalangeal, and metacarpal fractures where internal fixation is not always possible. We describe a simple, low cost, lightweight, and “easy to construct and easy to use” mini-fixator which can be used for complex, comminuted, open, or closed thumb fractures for definitive fixation with consistent and predictable outcomes. These self-made mini-fixators can also be used for other phalangeal and metacarpal fractures. This represents a viable, alternative option to commercially available mini-fixators which are costly, not readily available, and complicated to use.
Walter FL, Papandrea RF. A mini external fixator for hand and finger fractures constructed from readily available materials. Tech Hand Up Extrem Surg 2011;15:215-8.
Sraj S. A simple phalangeal external fixator using kirschner wires and locking balls: No need for cement or rubber bands. J Hand Surg Am 2016;41:e217-21.
Suzuki Y, Matsunaga T, Sato S, Yokoi T. The pins and rubbers traction system for treatment of comminuted intraarticular fractures and fracture-dislocations in the hand. J Hand Surg Br 1994;19:98-107.
Barabas AG, James M. A simple technique for secure external fixation of hand fractures: Bent k-wires wrapped in cement. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2010;63:e202-3.