LIPSG is honored to have a piece featuring our very own board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Brian A. Pinsky, in one of the top leading peer reviewed journals the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery-Global Open. This was also the only article featured on the podcast from this issue.
The article describes a retrospective study that compares the outcomes of single metacarpal, extra-articular fractures treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP) versus open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). It took place at NUMC (tertiary care Level 1 trauma center), where patients population was examined to see whether fixing the fracture with pins would have a better outcome than plates and screws. “Our original hypothesis was that plates and screws would yield a better outcome because the fixation is stronger, requires less time in a splint, and allows movement early after surgery,” says Dr. Pinsky.
However, the results showed there was no significant difference in functional outcome in many instances. Both CRPP and ORIF are viable techniques with good clinical outcomes and low complication rates. ORIF of closed metacarpal fractures allowed for earlier mobilization when compared with CRPP without compromising fracture stability, clinical or functional short-term outcomes. ORIF was preferred in late presenting injuries, comminuted fractures, and patients that needed earlier mobilization to return to work or activity.
For more information on this study, read the article here.
To listen to Dr. Pinsky’s podcast on this article, click here.
The hand and upper extremity are essential for carrying out many of our daily activities and interacting with the world around us. Visit our conditions and treatments page to learn more about what we treat.
Article: Extra-articular Metacarpal Fractures: Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pinning Versus Open Reduction and Internal Fixation
Author Information:
Vasilakis, Vasileios MD*,†; Sinnott, Catherine J. MD*; Hamade, Malack BS*; Hamade, Hassan BS*; Pinsky, Brian A. MD, FACS*,† Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open: May 2019 – Volume 7 – Issue 5 – p e2261 doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000002261
