Kirschner Wire and Pull-out Wire Fixation for the Treatment of Bony Mallet Finger

Kirschner Wire and Pull-out Wire Fixation for the Treatment of Bony Mallet Finger

The objective of this report is to describe a new surgical technique for the treatment of bony mallet finger which involves the application of both Kirschner wire and pull-out wire fixation. It is believed to decrease the risk of the complications.

From May 2003 to December 2008, we used Kirschner wire and pull-out wire fixation to carry out 54 closed bony mallet finger in 54 patients. The bony mallet finger was applicated both Kirschner wire and pull-out wire fixation.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. bony mallet finger;
2. patient had failed trials of nonsurgical treatment;
3. fracture involving more than 1/3 of the joint surface;
4. fragment displacement or subluxation of the DIP joint.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. tendinous mallet finger;
2. success of nonsurgical treatment;
3. comminuted fracture;
4. fracture involving at or less than 1/3 of the joint surface which could be successfully replaced with nonsurgical treatment.