gms | German Medical Science

Objectives/Interrogation: To introduce the clinical application results and surgical technique of treatment of fracture-dislocation of hamate-metacarpal articulation with across-joint internal fixation using bridging plate technique.

Methods: From August 2008 to December 2015, 55 cases of Fracture-dislocation of hamate-metacarpal articulation were treated with this kind of method and followed up. According to Cain type, including 8 cases of 1A type, 27 cases of 1B type, 13 cases of 2 type, 7 cases of 3 type. Open reduction and across joint internal fixation was performed to Fracture-dislocation of hamate-metacarpal articulation using a 2.3 mm Stryker bridging plate, early motion was allowed. The plate was removed at 4 months after operation.

Results and Conclusions: All the cases were followed up average 2.5 years, all the fractures were union successfully, the average union time were 5.5 weeks. Function evaluation was made according to pain degree and flexor and extensor activity of wrist joint. The overall good-excellent rate was 96.3%, the clinical results were satisfactory. Treatment of Fracture-dislocation of hamate-metacarpal articulation with across-joint internal fixation using bridging plate technique was better than conventional methods. This technique avoids redislocation and instability of the hamate-metacarpal joint, it is allowed to early active motion of wrist joint while still being able to achieve a stable fixation construct strong enough. Minimizing the need for prolonged splinting. It is an effective method in treatment of Fracture-dislocation of hamate-metacarpal articulation.