Finger fractures can lead to permanent stiffness, weakness, and limited function in the hand. If these are not treated carefully, patients can have a poor hand function. Much can be done to prevent many of these problems. There are a variety of techniques available for treatment of these injuries including splints, casts, therapy, and surgery. When the fracture is intra-articular, or into the joint, the treatment can be more difficult. Surgery is often necessary to restore the joint alignment in these cases.
In the images below, the patient underwent closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation of the intra-articular fracture of the proximal phalanx. This less-invasive technique limits the amount of scaring and can have fewer complications compared to open surgery. The pins are removed in the clinic in about 3 weeks after surgery and hand therapy is performed to regain finger range of motion, grip strength, and function. This is my preferred surgical treatment for patients who need surgery.
