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Acute calcific periarthritis (ACP) in the interphalangeal joints of the hand is rare, with less than 100 cases reported. A rare case of ACP in a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the hand, in a young black woman, after acute trauma, is presented. She experienced severe pain and limited range of motion, and was medicated with an oral corticoid, which was followed by a rapid resolution of the symptoms. At six months, there were no signs of clinical or radiographic recurrence. Recognition of ACP allows for avoiding unnecessary treatments. In this case, treatment with corticoids might have played a role in a faster recovery.

La periartritis calcificada aguda (PCA) en las articulaciones interfalángicas de la mano es rara, con menos de 100 casos reportados. Se presenta un caso raro de PCA en una articulación interfalángica proximal (IFP) de la mano, en una mujer joven de raza negra, después de un traumatismo agudo. Experimentó dolor intenso y rango de movimiento limitado, y fue medicada con un corticoide oral, lo que fue seguido por una rápida resolución de los síntomas. A los seis meses no hubo signos de recurrencia clínica ni radiológica. El reconocimiento de PCA permite evitar tratamientos innecesarios. En este caso, el tratamiento con corticoides podría haber contribuido a una recuperación más rápida.

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Objetivo: Demostrar que el vendaje semioclusivo logra una reconstrucción de la falange distal sin dolor residual, sin acortamiento adicional y con buen aspecto estético. Materiales y Métodos: Se evaluaron 47 dedos con lesiones distales que se dividieron en tres grupos: a) con compromiso de piel y tejido celular subcutáneo, b) con lesión adicional de la uña y c) con lesión ósea expuesta agregada. A todos se les colocó un vendaje semioclusivo con un recambio semanal hasta que la herida se curó, aproximadamente en cuatro semanas. Resultados: En 41 de los 47 dedos tratados, los resultados funcionales y estéticos fueron excelentes, con recuperación completa de la sensibilidad distal; 6 pacientes (14%) necesitaron una cirugía agregada, todos ellos en conflicto labo-ral. La media para la curación completa fue de 45.7 días y la media de recambio de apósito fue de tres en total para completar el tratamiento. Conclusiones: Las lesiones de la punta de los dedos, aun con la falange expuesta, pueden ser tratadas de forma sa-tisfactoria con un vendaje semioclusivo, pues se logra una reconstrucción sin dolor residual, sin acortamiento agregado, con bue-na fuerza y sensibilidad, además con un excelente aspecto estético de la falange, es un método económico y fácil de reproducir. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Objective: To demonstrate that semi-occlusive dressings achieve reconstruction of the distal phalanx with no residual pain, no additional shortening, and a satisfactory aesthetic appearance. Materials and Methods: 47 fingers with distal injuries were as-sessed and classified into three groups: a) with skin and subcutaneous cellular tissue involvement, b) with an additional nail injury, and c) with an additional open bone injury. All were covered with a semi-occlusive bandage which was replaced weekly until the wound healed, which took around four weeks. Results: 41 of the 47 treated fingers displayed excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes, with complete recovery of distal sensibility; nevertheless, 6 patients (14%) required additional surgery, all of whom had work conflicts. The average time for complete healing was 45.7 days, with three dressing replacements required to complete treat-ment. Conclusion: Fingertip injuries, even with the phalanx exposed, can be satisfactorily treated with semi-occlusive dressings. Reconstruction is achieved without residual pain, without additional shortening, with good strength and sensitivity, and with an excellent aesthetic appearance of the phalanx. It is also an economical and simple to replicate method. Level of Evidence: IV

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Flexor tendon repair in zone II benefits from early finger motion to prevent stiffness. This article presents a technique that serves to augment a zone II flexor tendon repair with an externalized detensioning suture that can be used following any commonly employed repair method. This simple technique enables early active motion and is suited for patients who are less likely to be compliant after surgery or when the soft-tissue injury to the finger and hand is substantial. Although this technique substantially strengthens the repair, a possible drawback is that the tendon excursion distal to the repair is limited until the externalized suture is removed, which may lead to less motion of the distal interphalangeal than what may have occurred without the detensioning suture.

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BACKGROUND: The regenerative potential of the nail bed after trauma remains controversial. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 51 patients who underwent nail bed reconstruction with 2 techniques (direct flow island flap or a Tranquilli-Leali "Atasoy" flap) due to trauma involving the nail bed complex. These 2 flaps were used to support the loss of distal substance and to allow the regeneration of the nail bed. Outcomes were analyzed for at least 18 months. There were 34 men (66.7%), and the average age was 16.1 years. Most patients (56.9%) had crush injuries. The little (16) and index (14) fingers were the most affected. Twenty-seven were children (range: 4-11) with an average age of 7.4 ± 1.9 years. The middle finger was the most affected (29.2%). RESULTS: The outcomes were good to excellent in 41 operated patients (80.4%). Hook nail was absent in 84.3% of the patients. Most patients (98%) did not develop necrosis. Children had an excellent/good outcome rate of 85.2%, while in adults, the rate was 75% of cases (P = .485). CONCLUSION: The direct flow island flap is superior in terms of outcome, regardless of age, sex, affected finger, dominant hand, type of trauma, and injury zone. In cases where there was a correct reconstruction of the hyponychium, there was regeneration of the nail bed.

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Abstract Objective Various modalities have been suggested to manage mallet fractures; however, inappropriate treatment can lead to extension lag, a swan neck deformity, or arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ). The current study aimed to evaluate the results (functional, radiological, and complications) of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of mallet fractures using low-cost hook plates fabricated from low-profile titanium mini plates. Methods A prospective case series of 17 consecutive patients (average age of 32.3 years) with mallet fractures (six were Wehbe Type IB and 11 were Wehbe Type MB). Eleven (64.7%) were males. The affected hand was dominant in all patients, and the affected digit was the index in 6 (35.3%), the ring in 5 (29.4%), the small in 3 (17.65%), and the middle in 3 (17.65%) patients. The same fellowship-trained hand surgeon performed all surgeries. Results The average operative time was 37.65 minutes. After an average follow-up of 10.94 months (range 6-27), the average DIPJ motion was 50º º (range 20º-70º), the extensor lag was noted in 4 (23.5%) patients, and complications were reported in 6 (35.29%) patients. According to Crawford criteria, 6 (35.3%) patients achieved excellent results, 7 (41.2%) achieved good results, and 4 (23.5%) achieved fair results. Conclusion The modified hook plate technique for fixation of mallet fractures is a beneficiai, economical, yet demanding technique that adequately provides stable fixation to allow early DIPJ motion with acceptable functional outcomes.

Resumo Objetivo Diversas modalidades têm sido sugeridas para o tratamento de fraturas em martelo; no entanto, o tratamento inadequado pode causar retardo de extensão, deformidade em pescoço de cisne ou artrite da articulação interfalangiana distal (AIFD). Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os desfechos (funcionais, radiológicos e complicações) da redução aberta e fixação interna (RAFI) das fraturas em martelo com placas de gancho de baixo custo fabricadas com mini placas de titânio de baixo perfil. Métodos Série de casos prospectivos de 17 pacientes consecutivos (idade média de 32,3 anos) com fraturas em martelo (seis do tipo IB e 11 do tipo IIB de Wehbe). Onze (64,7%) pacientes eram do sexo masculino. A mão acometida era a dominante em todos os pacientes, com acometimento do dedo indicador em seis (35,3%), anelar em cinco (29,4%), mínimo em três (17,65%) e médio em três (17,65%) pacientes. O mesmo cirurgião de mão experiente realizou todas as cirurgias. Resultados O tempo operatório médio foi de 37,65 minutos. Após um acompanhamento médio de 10,94 meses (intervalo de 6 a 27), observou-se movimento médio da AIFD de 50º (intervalo de 20º a 70º), retardo de extensão em quatro (23,5%) pacientes e complicações em seis (35,29%) pacientes. De acordo com os critérios de Crawford, os desfechos foram excelentes em seis (35,3%), bons em sete (41,2%) e regulares em quatro (23,5%) pacientes. Conclusão A técnica da placa de gancho modificada para fixação de fraturas em martelo é benéfica e econômica, mas exigente; permite fixação estável e adequada para permitir a movimentação precoce da AIFD com desfechos funcionais aceitáveis.

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PURPOSE: Although the palm is spared mostly in severe burn injuries, it often is affected in children and requires radical excision of contracting scar tissue to allow normal hand development. Since alternatives are limited for palmar coverage, we primarily use a reverse-perfused, neurocutaneous dorsal ulnar artery flap. We report here our long-term follow-up results. METHODS: We reviewed the long-term results of 10 postburn palmar contracture release and flap coverage procedures in 10 children. The applied flap was based distally on the dorsal branch of the ulnar artery and harvested along the ulnar aspect of the hand and wrist. The pivot point of the flap was located dorsally, close to the 4th and 5th metacarpal base. Patients were followed for a median period of 6 years (range, 4-20 years). RESULTS: Flap size ranged from 60-130 mm in length and 20-35 mm in width. This variation in flap dimensions resulted from different hand sizes, because of the various patient ages at surgery. All flaps survived, donor site healing was uneventful, and marginal flap necrosis occurred only once. Satisfactory restoration of range of motion without secondary contractures was observed. Moreover, we detected adequate progressive growth, adaptability and sensory recovery in all flaps. Over time, the flaps mostly become hairless and progressively flattened without debulking. CONCLUSIONS: The importance of this flap lies in the potential for considerable tissue mobilization to cover palmar defects without sacrificing any major vascular axis. The adequate progressive growth of the flap facilitates functional hand development in children. The predictable vascular anatomy, wide range, and durable, thin, and pliable skin make the reverse neurocutaneous dorsal ulnar artery flap an appealing option for soft tissue reconstruction of the palm in children. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

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Las lesiones graves de los dedos con pérdida de sustancia y exposición de estructuras nobles constituyen un desafío para evitar la amputación. Estas situaciones han impulsado el desarrollo de un gran número de colgajos axiales, locales, con el fin de salvar el dígito. Los colgajos libres, tomados a medida, también han sido descritos para dar coberturas adecuadas y de buena calidad. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con lesión grave de dedo anular con exposición ósea y daño tendíneo, con una pérdida de cobertura de 4 4 cm. El paciente fue sometido a una reconstrucción con un colgajo libre del pie, tomando como eje vascular la primera arteria intermetatarsiana. El paciente conservó su dedo con una movilidad a expensas de la articulación interfalángica proximal (IFP), con una piel de buena calidad, pinza firme y sin dolor. La zona dadora no presentó complicaciones. En manos de un equipo entrenado, con indicación adecuada, estos colgajos logran un buen resultado estético y funcional.

Severe finger injuries with loss of substance and exposure of noble structures are a challenge to avoid amputation. These situations have prompted the development of many local axial flaps to save the digit. Customized free flaps have also been described to provide adequate and good-quality coverage. We present the case of a patient with a severe injury to the ring finger with bone exposure and tendinous damage, with a coverage defect of 4 4 cm. The patient underwent reconstruction with a free flap from the foot, taking the first intermetatarsal artery as the donor vascular axis. The patient kept his finger with mobility at the expense of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, with good-quality skin, firm clamp, and no pain. The donor area did not present complications. In the hands of a trained team, with adequate indication, these flaps achieve a good esthetic and functional result

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Macrodactyly is a serious and rare disease and considered one of the most difficult pathologies to treat. There is no rule and the treatment for each patient must be tailor-made, depending on the location and degree of macrodactyly. Although amputation is a valid option for adult patients, nail preservation and reconstruction are important and has a direct impact on the treatment outcome, both aesthetically and on the patient's self-esteem. We have used a wide, z-shaped fingertip flap associated with the preservation of a nail quadrant, bone shortening and distal interphalangeal arthrodesis. We have obtained good functional and aesthetic outcomes with this 'quadrant flap' technique. The technique allows decreasing digit size and volume and reconstruction of the nail complex and finger pulp. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

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Las lesiones de punta de dedo son comunes en pacientes pediátricos que acuden a salas de Emergencia; son causadas por accidentes en el hogar y con aplastamiento en puerta como principal mecanismo de trauma. El tratamiento se realiza individualizado por cirujanos plásticos y cirujanos pediátricos en dependencia de la herida y el compromiso tisular. El propósito de este estudio es describir el manejo de pacientes con lesiones de punta de dedo en un centro pediátrico. Se realizó un análisis de historias clínicas en el período entre enero 2015 y diciembre 2020, se evaluaron 228 pacientes atendidos en el Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, en Guayaquil, Ecuador. Los resultados incluyen un predominio de pacientes en edad preescolar (67%), masculinos (56%) y de mano derecha (53%). Los dedos más afectados fueron el medio y anular. Los procedimientos fueron realizados por cirujanos plásticos (55%) y la técnica electiva fue bajo anestesia general. La extensión del daño involucró tejidos blandos (92%), avulsión de uña (29%) y fracturas asociadas (15%). El 3% de los pacientes presentó complicaciones que requirieron seguimiento. El tipo de reparo se seleccionó en dependencia de la extensión de la herida, se realizaron suturas simples (37%) y suturas complejas con reparo de la uña (27%). Nuestros datos son similares a los descritos en la literatura internacional, con buenos resultados a largo plazo, menor tasa de complicaciones y respuestas similares en los reparos realizados por cirujanos plásticos y cirujanos pediatras.

Fingertip injuries are common in pediatric patients who present to the emergency room. They are usually caused by accidents at home, being door-crush the main mechanism. Treatment is performed on an individual basis, by a Plastic or General Pediatric Surgeon, according to the wound findings and tissue involvement. The purpose of this study is to describe the management on a pediatric center in patients with a fingertip wound. A descriptive and retrospective analysis of medical records was carried out from January 2015 until December 2020. In this period 228 patients were seen in the Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde Children´s Hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador. A high incidence was found in the preschool age with 67% of cases. The injuries were more common in males (56 %) and more predominant on the right hand (53%). The most affected fingers were the middle and annular. Procedures were mostly performed by Pediatric Surgeons (55%) and the elective technique was under general anesthesia. Damage extension of the fingertip included soft tissues in 92% of patients, nail avulsion in 29% and associated fractures in 15%. Only 3% of patients developed complications that required follow up. The type of repair was selected according to the extension of the injury. Mostly simple sutures (37%) and complex sutures with nail repair (27%)were used.Our data is similar to the one found in international literature, with good long-term outcomes, minor complications and similar results when the repair was performed by a Plastic or Pediatric surgeon

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OBJECTIVE: This study reports a clinical case of rehabilitation of a patient who had her left little finger amputated at the mesial phalanx because of a gunshot wound. The finger prosthesis was custom- made using a silicone. CASE DESCRIPTION: This study presents a clinical case of a female patient who had her left little finger amputated at the mesial phalanx because of a gunshot wound in 2016. The patient was attended at a reference center in maxillofacial rehabilitation in the city of Brasilia, Distrito Federal, Brazil, for the manufacture of a finger prosthesis. After molding, a finger waxing was obtained using the right little finger as a template. The waxing was later adjusted on the plaster model of the affected stump. The prosthesis was manufactured with silicone and intrinsically stained with a makeup powder. A water-based adhesive and a ring were used to generate a slight compression so that the prosthesis was retained on the stump. OUTCOMES: The rehabilitation showed satisfactory levels of stability, retention, and aesthetics, and it was usable and clinically acceptable, as observed in a follow-up appointment in February 2020. CONCLUSIONS: The complete or partial reestablishment of functions performed by important structures, such as the fingers, is essential to increase the quality of life of individuals, improving their performance of daily activities. In addition, reporting on this public health problem allows scientific advancement in the area.

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Abstract Objective To describe and compare the results obtained with a secondary healing protocol for fingertip amputations and their relationship to injury severity according to the Allen classification. Methods Medical records of 127 fingertip injuries were revised, and a retrospective, comparative, analytical study the amputations treated conservatively was performed. Injury characteristics, healing time, and complications were described and analyzed. Results Between April 2017 and May 2019, 127 fingertip injuries were treated conservatively. The average age of the sample was of 28.33 years. The average healing time was of 4.31 weeks. The complications during the follow-up were observed in 18.9% (n= 24) of the cases, but none require revision treatment. A statistically significant relationship between the development of complications and treatment revision according to the Allen classification was not found (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusion The proposed secondary healing protocol has shown to be safe and effective in types 1 to 3 fingertip amputations in the Allen classification, and it should be included as a therapeutic option even in injuries of greater extension than those that have traditionally been limited to.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever e comparar os resultados obtidos com um protocolo de cicatrização secundária para amputações das pontas dos dedos e sua relação com a gravidade da lesão de acordo com a classificação de Allen. Métodos Foram revisados os prontuários clínicos de 127 lesões nas pontas dos dedos, e realizou-se um estudo retrospectivo, comparativo e analítico das amputações tratadas de forma conservadora. Foram descritas e analisadas as características da lesão, o tempo de cicatrização, e as complicações. Resultados Entre abril de 2017 e maio de 2019, foram tratadas de forma conservadora 127 lesões nas pontas dos dedos. A idade média da amostra era de 28,33 anos. O tempo médio de cicatrização foi de 4,31 semanas. As complicações apresentadas durante o acompanhamento afetaram 18,9% (n = 24) dos casos, porém nenhum exigiu tratamento de revisão. Não foi encontrada relação estatisticamente significativa entre o desenvolvimento das complicações e a revisão do tratamento de acordo com a classificação de Allen (p ≥ 0,05). Conclusão O protocolo de cicatrização secundária proposto mostrou-se seguro e eficaz nas amputações das pontas dos dedos conforme os tipos de 1 a 3 da classificação de Allen, e deve ser incluída como opção terapêutica mesmo em lesões de maior extensão do que aquelas tradicionalmente limitadas.

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Introducción: Las lesiones en las manos causadas por amoladora son comunes y generalmente ocurren en adultos jóvenes. En países en desarrollo, el ámbito doméstico y el trabajo informal son los escenarios más frecuentes. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir factores asociados a las lesiones por amoladora, y cuantificar y clasificar las heridas, según la gravedad y la región anatómica de la mano involucrada. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio epidemiológico, retrospectivo. Entre 2016 y 2020, estudiamos a los pacientes con heridas de mano causadas por amoladora. Se analizaron el nivel educativo, la experiencia con la herramienta, el material cortado, el uso de equipo de protección personal, la edad y el sexo. Para determinar el patrón de las lesiones se realizó un análisis clínico-anatómico y radiológico detallado e individualizado. La gravedad fue evaluada con el Hand Injury Severity Score. Resultados: Se evaluó a928 pacientes (920 hombres y 8 mujeres, edad promedio 42 años). Solo el 22,4% usaba equipo de protección personal en el momento del accidente. El 84,5% (776 casos) realizaba tareas inusuales para la que esta herramienta no fue diseñada. La mano más afectada fue la izquierda (62,06%). En 784 pacientes, las heridas involucraban los dedos, el patrón de asociación predominante fue entre el 2do y 3er dedo (54,44%). Las lesiones fueron leves (24,1%), moderadas (41,3%), graves (26%) y mayores (8,6%). Conclusiones: Las lesiones por amoladora pueden resultar devastadoras. Una actualización epidemiológica reforzaría la necesidad de desarrollar métodos preventivos con el fin de disminuir su alta incidencia. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Hand injuries caused by angle grinders are frequent and generally take place among young adults. In developing countries, the domestic and informal work environments are the most frequent places where this could happen. The present study is aimed at describing associated factors to these types of injuries. Lesions were quantified and classified according to the sever-ity and anatomic region of the hand involved. Methods: An epidemiologic, retrospective study was performed between 2016 and 2020. The patients' level of education, previous experience using the machine, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sex, and age were analyzed. To determine the pattern of the injuries, a clinical-anatomical and a detailed and individualized radiological analysis were performed on each patient. The severity was measured using the "Hand Injury Severity Score" (HISS). Results: 928 patients were studied (920 men, 8 women, average age of 42 years [range 18-67]). Only 22.4% were wearing PPE at the time of the accident. 776 participants were performing tasks for which the tool was not intended (84.5%). The left hand was the most af-fected (60%). In 784 patients, the injuries involved their fingers (84.48%); the predominant pattern was the index and middle finger (55%). According to the HISS, 24.1% were minor injuries, 41.3% were moderate, 26% were serious, and 8.6% were severe. Con-clusions: Injuries caused by an angle grinder can be devastating. We believe that an epidemiological update is likely to increase the need to develop preventive methods to decrease its high incidence. Level of Evidence: IV

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Achenbach's syndrome describes the sudden occurrence of bruising, pain and swelling of one or more digits of the hand involving the volar aspect of the proximal and middle phalanges. Also known as the paroxysmal finger hematoma, it presents in dramatic fashion, sometimes with a prodrome of tingling, itching or numbness but despite its dramatic presentation, all investigations are normal. Routine blood investigations, as well as coagulation and thrombophilia screens are all negative as are vascular imaging and echocardiography. The diagnosis is solely clinical. Due to the nature of its presentation, almost all patients are referred for an urgent vascular consultation but the condition resolves spontaneously usually within 2-3 days, although the discoloration may persist for longer. Its appearance usually leads clinicians to start anticoagulation in the belief that it may progress but, in fact, it settles as quickly as it appears. Though there are episodic cases which recur years later, it is generally self-resolving with no complications nor residual morbidity. Although the etiology was previously unknown, there is now a recognized genetic link. Genes related to the acute phase reactive proteins and the coagulation and complement cascades appear to be linked to Achenbach's syndrome. This evidence may explain why only certain individuals seem prone to this acutely painful, bruising disorder. We review this interesting disorder and compare patients from the tropical Caribbean region with similar cases from the temperate United Kingdom and discuss whether there are climatic variations in presentations.

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BACKGROUND: Fingertips are the most commonly injured anatomical structures in the upper extremity. The aim of this work is to present our experience in the management of fingertip injuries. METHODS: All patients with fingertip injuries managed by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division of Hospital General “Dr Manuel Gea Gonzalez” in Mexico from July 2010 to June 2015 were included; their demographic characteristics were described, as well as patterns of injury and management. RESULTS: A total of 1,265 patients were included in the study, 75% were males. The mean age of presentation was 20.5 ± 16.46 years; the age group most commonly affected was younger than 15 years (46.7%). Right and left-sided injuries were almost equally prevalent (51 vs. 49%). The most commonly injured fingers were the third (27.2%), and second (25.8%). Eighty-seven percent of the patients presented with single-digit injuries. Fingertip amputations were the most common type of injury with 620 cases (49%), followed by simple fingertip lacerations (574 cases, 45%), and nail bed injuries in 71 cases (5.6%). Surgical management was necessary in 95.8% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Fingertip injuries remain the most common reason for consultation in hand emergencies. A structured approach for their treatment is necessary to obtain the best clinical outcomes.

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La reconstrucción de una amputación distal de dedo en un niño es un desafío. Los procedimientos propuestos son muchos, y los resultados no han sido buenos. La reconstrucción con reposición del segmento a modo de injerto compuesto, o con técnicas microquirúrgicas, parece ofrecer la mejor de las posibilidades, pues se conservan estructuras irremplazables, como el lecho ungueal y el hiponiquio, lo que permite que los niños mantengan un pulpejo anatómico y con función normal. Presentamos una serie de tres pacientes pediátricos tratados con una nueva técnica, que combina la reposición del segmento, como un injerto compuesto, y el uso de curación semioclusiva (composite autograft and semi-oclussive dressing, CASOD, en inglés). Hemos observado buenos resultados.

The reconstruction of finger tip amputation in children is challenging. There are many procedures described to treat this injury, none of which present optimal results. Repositioning of the amputated segment as an autograft or with microsurgical techniques seems to offer the best outcome. It enables the preservation of otherwise irreplaceable structures, such as the nail bed and the hyponychium, thus enabling children to mantain an anatomically and functionally normal finger pad. We present a series of three pediatric patients treated with tha new technique, which combines composite autograft and semi-oclusive dressing (CASOD). The results observed so far have been promising.

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OBJECTIVE: To develop a clinical decision guide for the diagnosis and treatment of hyperextension injuries of long fingers. STUDY DESIGN: Consecutive patients age <16 years (n = 300) with an acute proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint hyperextension injury were included. High-risk and low-risk measures for severe injury were established with a standardized clinical examination and anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the injured finger. Four clinical variables were assessed: location of pain; swelling and bruising, stability, and mobility. Pathological radiographic findings were compiled, and the risk of late complications was analyzed. The predictive value of the clinical examination in the identification of low-risk injuries was assessed. RESULTS: The majority (67%) of children consulting for a hyperextension finger trauma did not have a fracture. No child with a low-risk clinical examination had a subsequent high-risk diagnosis (eg, relevant intra-articular fracture, dislocation). Among 64 clinical high-risk diagnoses only 12 significant fractures were found. CONCLUSION: Treatment decisions after PIP hyperextension injuries can be based on a clinical examination using a standardized evaluation protocol. Application of the clinical decision guide presented here has a sensitivity of 100% to rule out a significant injury. Present results showed that the majority of radiographs currently performed are avoidable. Once the decision rule is validated, its clinical application will improve patient care, reduce waiting times in emergency departments, avoid unnecessary radiation exposure, and possibly reduce costs.

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El tratamiento de los tendones flexores es un tema de interés y genera un desafío constante tanto para los cirujanos como para los rehabilitadores. Se han descrito numerosas técnicas quirúrgicas y tratamientos con la finalidad de mejorar el resultado funcional, aunque hoy en día no existe un protocolo ideal. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la información relevante a los efectos de planificar la rehabilitación de los pacientes con lesiones de tendones flexores en la zona II. Entre otros aspectos tendremos en cuenta la solidez de la sutura, el edema, la cicatriz, el tipo de inmovilización utilizada y el deslizamiento tendinoso. Es necesario contar con un buen equipo de trabajo formado por el cirujano, el terapista de mano y el paciente a fin de planificar la rehabilitación más adecuada para cada caso. Nivel de Evidencia: V

The treatment of flexor tendons is a topic of interest and creates a constant challenge for both surgeons and rehabilitators. Numerous surgical techniques and treatments have been described in order to improve functional results, although nowadays there is no ideal protocol. The objective of this article is to analyze the relevant information in order to plan the rehabilitation of patients with flexor tendon injuries in zone II. Among other aspects, we will take into account the strenght of the suture, the edema, the scar, the type of immobilization and the tendon gliding. Good teamwork is required between the surgeon, the hand therapist, and the patient in order to plan the most appropriate rehabilitation for each case. Level of Evidence: V

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Objetivos: Comparar el tratamiento de pacientes con fracturas oblicuas o espiroideas largas de metacarpianos, mediante reducción abierta y fijación interna con tornillos interfragmentarios solos o placas y tornillos. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo comparativo entre 2 grupos de pacientes: uno con 24 pacientes tratados con tornillos interfragmentarios solos y otro con 17 pacientes tratados mediante osteosíntesis con placas y tornillos. En ambos, se utilizó un abordaje longitudinal dorsal, y se les indicó inmovilización posoperatoria con valva de yeso y rehabilitación con el mismo equipo de terapistas ocupacionales. Tras un seguimiento mínimo de 12 meses, se evaluaron los resultados con el puntaje DASH, la movilidad activa total, la distancia pulpejo-palma y la fuerza con dinamometría comparativa. Se consideró significativo un valor p <0,05. Resultados: El tiempo promedio de seguimiento fue de 24.5 meses (rango 12-43).No se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el puntaje DASH, la movilidad activa total, la distancia pulpejo-palma y la fuerza. El tiempo hasta el reingreso laboral fue inferior en el grupo tratado con placas y tornillos, aunque se registraron dos casos de retiro de material, sumado, en uno de ellos, a adherencia tendinosa (tenólisis). Conclusiones: El tratamiento de pacientes con fracturas oblicuas o espiroideas largas de metacarpianos, mediante tornillos interfragmentarios solos o placas y tornillos logró resultados similares, se destaca el menor tiempo hasta la reincorporación laboral y la mayor cantidad de complicaciones con placas y tornillos. Nivel de Evidencia: III

Objective: To compare open reduction and internal fixation with interfragmentary screws and with plates and screws for the treatment of long oblique or spiral metacarpal fractures. Materials and methods: A comparative retrospective study was carried out between 2 groups of patients treated surgically. In the first group, 24 patients were treated with interfragmentary screws and in the second group, 17 patients were treated with plate and screw osteosynthesis. A dorsal longitudinal approach was used. Postoperatively, immobilization was performed using a plaster splint; both groups followed rehabilitation with same occupational therapist team. After a minimum follow-up of 12 months, they were evaluated with the DASH score, total active motion (TAM), pulp-to-palm distance, and comparative contralateral dynamometry. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The average follow-up was 24.5 months (range 12-43 months). There were no statistically significant differences in DASH, TAM, pulp-to-palm distance, and strength. The group treated with plate and screw fixation returned to work earlier, although there were two cases of implant removal, in addition to tendon adherence (tenolysis) in one of them. Conclusions: The treatment of patients with long oblique or spiral metacarpal fractures with interfragmentary screws or plates and screws showed similar outcomes; the treatment with plate and screws allowed an earlier return to work but had a greater number of complications. Level of Evidence: III

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