Corrective osteotomy for malunited metacarpal fractures: long-term results of a novel technique

Abstract

Symptomatic malunited metacarpal fractures can significantly affect hand function. We retrospectively reviewed the results of our technique of corrective osteotomy in 14 malunited metacarpal fractures (12 patients) with an average age of 30 years (range 18–49) from January 2005 to December 2011. The dominant hand was involved in nine patients and all except one were male. The malunited metacarpals demonstrated mean dorsal apex angulation of 43° (range 33°–72°) with apparent metacarpal shortening. All except three cases had rotational deformity. All patients underwent surgical correction of the deformity using our described technique of closing wedge osteotomy using temporary intramedullary K-wire and plate fixation. At a mean follow-up of 46 months (range 12–78), the DASH scores improved significantly (p < 0.001). All our patients scored ‘excellent’ according to the Büchler criteria and at final follow-up had returned to pre-injury work and sports activities. Our technique is safe, easily performed and can be adapted to correct a range of deformities.

Level of evidence: Level IV