One-stage Distal Interphalangeal Joint Fusion With External Fixator for the Treatment of Septic Joint Arthritis.

Septic joint arthritis in the small joints of the hand can be caused by penetrating trauma, ruptured ganglion cysts, or open joint dislocations, among others. The use of external fixation for the treatment of this condition has been reported in the past as a means of temporary joint distraction, or for secondary fusion procedures. In the present article, the authors describe a surgical technique involving the use of a low-cost external fixator for the primary arthrodesis of infected distal interphalangeal joints of the hand.

Intramedullary Screws versus Kirschner Wires for Metacarpal Fixation, Functional, and Patient-Related Outcomes.

 The purpose of our study is to compare the intramedullary fixation of metacarpal fractures with cannulated headless screws and antegrade Kirschner wires in terms of final total active motion, grip strength, patient-related outcomes, need for casting, and return to work times.  The authors performed a retrospective review of the hospital records. Thirty fractures were included in the study, 19 in the screw fixation group, and 11 in the Kirschner wire group.

The Bilobed Racquet Flap or Extended Seagull Flap for Thumb Reconstruction: A Case Report.

The treatment of extensive soft tissue defects in the thumb with dorsal metacarpal artery flaps has been previously reported in the literature. Island flaps from the dorsum of the index and long fingers have been the subject of many reports and studies. However, when the defect involves the whole thumb, a 360° circumferential defect, standard first or second dorsal metacarpal artery flaps are usually insufficient.