Abstract：Objective:To observe the treatment outcome of the use of ORTHOFIX mini-external fixator for congenital finger PIP joints flexion deformity. Methods:From June 2009 to July 2011, ORTHOFIX mini-external fixator was closed treated with PIP flexion deformity congenital in 6 cases, including 2 cases in the ring finger of left hand and 4 cases in the little finger of right hand . All cases were type Ⅱ. Preoperative PIP flexion contracture angle were from 71.5 °to 92.5 °, an average of 85.7 ° ± 1.3 °. ORTHOFIX mini-external fixator was treated with congenital finger PIP joints flexion deformity. All cases were assessed with the American Society of Hand Surgery recommended TAM (total active movement, TAM).Results:This group of 6 patients with 6 fingers, after a 2.5-4 weeks (average 3 weeks) ,the angle of finger PIP could be straightened from to 160.2 ° to 179.5 °, an average of 176.7 ° ± 0.8 °. Average correction angle were 91.0 ° ± 1.3°. After one month operation, According to TAM system evaluation treatment effect, 5 cases were excellent, 1 was good. Six cases were follow-up for 0.5 to 2 year. The PIP joint angle was only up to 160° in 1 case and the angle in the remaining were up to 180°.Conclusions:The method of closed external fixation for finger PIP flexion deformity congenital were simple and the results were satisfactory.
2013, Vol. 18 
