Abstract
The external skeletal fixator is a useful device to maintain the alignment of the bone and bone-cartilage fragments for the fracture of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of fingers. Robertson’s traction method is conventional, but the traction system is bulky, needs frequent adjustment, and makes motion exercise difficult. Recently, some traction devices have been developed which allow early active motion after surgery. The treatment of a 24-year-old man with an intra-articular fracture of the PIP joint of the index finger is reported in this case report. A Meira’s mini external skeletal fixation system was applied to maintain the alignment of the joint. This titanium system is small, permits easy adjustment of the traction force, and allows early active range of motion training. The bony union was completed and the joint congruity was good at 2 months after surgery. The range of motion of the PIP joint was 75 degrees at 6 months after surgery. Meira’s mini external skeletal fixation system was useful for the treatment of the fracture of the PIP joint.
