Add like
Add dislike
Add to saved papers

Functional-conservative treatment of extra-articular physeal fractures of the proximal phalanges in children and adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the proximal phalanges of the fingers are common injuries in children and adolescents. The majority can be treated by closed reduction and splinting, and complications are rare. The purpose of the prospective study was to document the results of functional-conservative treatment of extra-articular physeal fractures using either a functional forearm cast or the Lucerne Cast (LuCa).

METHODS: Clinical and radiographic results of 13 pediatric patients having 13 extra-articular physeal fractures (e.g., juxta-epiphyseal fractures, Salter-Harris type I or II physeal fractures) of the proximal phalanges were recorded through a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Intra-articular physeal fractures (Salter-Harris type III or IV), fractures involving the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ), pathological fractures, open fractures, and concomitant injuries of the tendons were excluded.

RESULTS: Fracture consolidation was achieved in all cases within 4 weeks. No palmar apex angulations, no rotational deformities, and no PIPJ extension lags could be observed. All patients achieved full total active range of motion within 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS: Well-reduced extra-articular physeal fractures of the proximal phalanges can be effectively treated using functional-conservative casts. Although children may need a functional forearm cast, a LuCa is adequate in compliant adolescents.Level of Evidence The level of evidence for the study is Level II (therapeutic studies).

Full text links

We have located links that may give you full text access.
Can't access the paper?
Try logging in through your university/institutional subscription. For a smoother one-click institutional access experience, please use our mobile app.

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app

Mobile app image

Get seemless 1-tap access through your institution/university

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app

All material on this website is protected by copyright, Copyright © 1994-2024 by WebMD LLC.
This website also contains material copyrighted by 3rd parties.

By using this service, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy.

Your Privacy Choices Toggle icon

You can now claim free CME credits for this literature searchClaim now

Get seemless 1-tap access through your institution/university

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app