Outcomes of the use of Ligamentotaxor® for proximal interphalangeal fractures of the hand: North Bristol hand centre experience

Excerpt

Complex intra-articular fractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) with or without associated dislocation are usually difficult to treat. Immobilization with splinting alone frequently produces a poor outcome with stiffness, pain and a markedly reduced range of movement [1]. Various techniques of open reduction and internal fixation have been described, but these are technically demanding with variable outcomes [2]. A review of both conservative and open techniques highlighted these outcomes [2]. The ideal treatment should permit early motion while maintaining a congruent reduction of the joint; hence, various dynamic external fixation devices have been proposed [3]. The Ligamentotaxor (Arex, Palaisseau Cedex, France) is a commercial device that provides traction across the PIPJ; facilitating reduction of any subluxation and maintaining the position of displaced fracture fragments by ‘ligamentotaxis’ while allowing a good range of motion (ROM) of the joint. We present our unit’s protocol and outcomes of using Ligamentotaxor for treatment of PIPJ complex fractures. …