Abstract
Introduction There is a high incidence of hand fractures, and a high percentage of them require
surgical treatment. The functional result depends, to a large extent, on the technique
used. The use of retrograde intramedullary screws allows for early mobilization and
minimal dissection of soft tissues. The objective of the present study is to analyze
the clinical results and complications with this type of osteosynthesis.
Methods A total of 96 fractures in 81 patients were analyzed. There were 62 metacarpal fractures,
60% of which involved the 5th finger, 29% involved the 4th, 5% involved the 3rd, and 6% involved the 2nd finger. There were 34 fractures of the phalanxes, 27 of which (79.5%) involved the
proximal phalanx, and 20.5% involved the middle phalanx. The range of active mobility,
the time spent at work, and intraoperative complications were assessed.
Results The average active mobility obtained was 260° (230–270°). Patients resumed their
normal activity within an average time of 5 weeks (between 3 and 32 weeks). There
was a 6% rate of intraoperative complications and a 13% rate of postoperative complications
in the metacarpals, and an 8% rate of intraoperative complications and 11% of postoperative
complications in the phalanxes.
Conclusion The use of cannulated screws is a safe and effective option for the treatment of
different types of fractures, obtaining a good range of mobility, early reintegration,
and with an acceptable number of complications.
Keywords
metacarpal fractures - phalangeal fractures - cannulated screw
