The Clinical Study of Non-union of Phalages in the Hand

Kim, Key Yong; Cho, Duck yun; Kwon, Sam Joo

Abstract

Fractures of the phalanges of the hand are very common. Many are minor and likely to have a good result. However many other phalangeal fractures cause significant and prolonged disability. Non-union of the tubular bones of the hand are uncommon occurrence, but are often associated with functional deficits. The authors have reviewed 7 cases of non-union of the phalanges which were treated in the department of orthopaedic surgery, National Medical Center from 1978 to 1985. The results were summarized as follows: 1. The non-union of phalangeal bone was defined by clinical symptoms and signs and roentgenological examination. 2. The incidence of non-union of phalangeal bone fractures was 0.9% (7/771 cases.) 3. of 7 patients, there were 6 in male and 1 in female. 4. Non-union occurred more commonly in the second decade and the group between 10 and 30 years of age. 5. Seven cases, all were the right handed, but injury was developed in the left hands except two cases. 6. The causes of non-union were thought as open wound (7 cases), type of fracture (simple or comminution:3 cases), inadequate immobilization (4 cases) and overtraction (1 case). 7. of 7 cases, 4 cases were treated with bone peg graft and K-wire fixation and 2 cases with excision of distal fragment. 8. The clinical union was 9 weeks in average.