Abstract
Between January 2002 and August 2009 a total of 51 children and adolescents with 57 closed fractures of the metacarpals (MC) II-V were treated with a single elastic stable nail and followed up prospectively (MC V n=37, MC IV n=11, MC III n=1, MC II n=8). Of the fractures 39 were located at the distal part of the MC, 11 were located proximally and 7 in the diaphysis. After closed reduction of all fractures they were treated with an elastic stable nail 2 mm or 2.5 mm in size without further immobilization. All patients except a 7-year-old girl with polytrauma were treated as outpatients. At follow-up no child showed a deformation of axis or rotational deviation, all patients reached a complete free range of motion (ASSH TAF score system) and good functional results. There were two cases of skin irritation due to a false technique which required nail removal without significant loss of reduction. In one case hypaesthesia of the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve was temporary. No infections, second operative procedures, pseudarthrosis or limited range of motion occurred. Children and adolescents with a dislocated fracture of metacarpals profit from operations with one elastic intramedullary nail. This method can be offered as an effective and safe alternative in the treatment of closed displaced fractures of the II-V metacarpals without significant complications but immediate mobilization.
Translated title of the contribution | Dislocated fractures of metacarpals II-V. Outcome after operative treatment with an elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN) in children and adolescents |
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Original language | German |
Journal | Trauma und Berufskrankheit |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 1 |
Pages (from-to) | 51-56 |
Number of pages | 6 |
ISSN | 1436-6274 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 01.03.2012 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Academic Focus: Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM)