Suzuki Frame as a Treatment Modality for PIP Joint Fractures

Abstract

BACKGROUND Injuries to the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) of the fingers are common. They occur most often following an axial impact on an extended finger. There are different modalities of treatment for such fractures like extension block splinting, the Allison's device, the Hynes and Giddings device, ORIF with interfragmentary screw and many others. We have chosen Suzuki frame for treatment of such fractures proposed by Suzuki et al in 1994. METHODS We reviewed our 25 consecutive cases of PIPJ fractures treated with Suzuki frame. Clinical and radiological evaluation was done at 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 6 weeks. Total active motion of the PIPJ, radiography and complications if any were noted. RESULTS Of 25 cases, radiological union was achieved in 23 cases. Remaining 2 were lost to follow up. Good to excellent result was achieved in 91% cases. None of the patients suffered any sort of infection and were discharged on a single antibiotic (co-amoxiclav). Even the pain score was zero in 21 cases which accounts for 91%. So this procedure gives good results in term of pain and functionality both. CONCLUSIONS Suzuki frame for PIPJ fractures is simple, safe, soft tissue sparing, minimally invasive technique giving excellent functional and cosmetic results with minimal complications.

Pitfalls and suggestions for the treatment of open, comminuted fractures of the middle phalanx using custom-made dynamic external fixators: a retrospective case series

“…9 In recent years, various dynamic skeletal systems have been presented in the literature with most authors reporting good results and satisfactory functional outcomes in many small series for unstable intraarticular fracture of the PIP joint. 4,7,[9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16] However, even though there are many reports regarding the treatment of PIP joint fractures and fracture dislocations using pins and rubbers traction systems (PRTS), the application of the method in open, complex intraarticular fractures of the PIP with severe degree of comminution, particularly when there is an extension of the fracture to the diaphysis, has not been reported extensively.…”