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European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery
Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery 3/2023

09-02-2023 | Metacarpal Fracture | Original Article

Outcome of functional treatment with a Lucerne Cast in patients with hand fractures: a retrospective case series

Authors: Priscilla A. Jawahier, Dorien. A. Salentijn, Nadine M. Teunissen, Frank J. P. Beeres, Mark van Heijl, Niels W. L. Schep

Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery | Issue 3/2023

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical outcome of patients treated with a functional Lucerne Cast (LuCa) for different types of hand fractures. Static casting has traditionally been the preferred treatment for hand fractures. However, functional casting may lead to good functional outcomes, less stiffness, and earlier return to work.

Methods

A retrospective case series of all consecutive patients with a metacarpal or proximal phalangeal fracture treated with a LuCa between 2018 and 2019 was conducted. A total of 90 patients were included. Clinical data were collected directly from the patient’s medical records. Functional outcome was assessed with the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ).

Results

The median MHQ score was 95 (IQR 83–100) with a median follow-up of 23 months. Complications occurred in 7 of 90 patients (8%). Functional impairment occurred in two (2%) patients. Functional impairment was defined as stiffness, persisting rotational deformity, a boutonnière or swanneck deformity. Persisting pain or CRPS occurred in six (7%) patients.

Conclusion

The LuCa shows to be effective in the functional treatment of both metacarpal and proximal phalangeal fractures with excellent patient-reported outcomes but at a relatively high rate of persisting pain.
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Metadata
Title
Outcome of functional treatment with a Lucerne Cast in patients with hand fractures: a retrospective case series
Authors
Priscilla A. Jawahier
Dorien. A. Salentijn
Nadine M. Teunissen
Frank J. P. Beeres
Mark van Heijl
Niels W. L. Schep
Publication date
09-02-2023
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery / Issue 3/2023
Print ISSN: 1863-9933
Electronic ISSN: 1863-9941
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-023-02234-8

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