A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Fixation of Long Oblique and Spiral Shaft Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx: Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Kirschner Wiring Versus Open Reduction and Lag Screw Fixation

Patients with an isolated spiral or long oblique fracture of the proximal phalanx were randomized into two groups. One was treated by closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation and the second treated by open reduction and lag screw fixation. An independent observer assessed function, pain, movement, grip strength and intrinsic muscle function. X-rays were assessed for malunion. Thirty-two patients were entered the study and 15 in the Kirschner wire and 13 in the lag screw group were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 40 months. There was no significant difference in the functional recovery rates or in the pain scores for the two groups. X-rays showed similar rates of malunion and there were no statistically significant differences in range of movement or grip strength.