Abstract
Two important fractures of the trapeziometacarpal joint are Bennett's fracture and Rolando's fracture. There are many treatments for these fractures, amongst which closed reduction and percutaneous pinning have become the treatment of choice for these fractures these days.
We report on our treatment with an external fixator in 7 cases of Bennett's fracture and Rolando's fracture between 1995 and 1998. Four cases are Bennett's fractures and 3 cases are Rolando's. All cases could be followed, and the follow-up period varied from 6 months to 2 years.
The policy of our department has been towards the reconstruction of the articular surface with closed reduction applying external fixator. If the fracture is not reducible, an open reduction is recommended.
Clinical results were assessed using Saito's demerit point system for Bennett's fracture and roentgenographic findings were analysed. There were 6 excellent, 1 good, and no fair or poor. Roentgenographically, there was only 1 case with shortening of the metacarpal shaft. By using an external fixator, reduction can be maintained without difficulty.
