This paper reports the use of a traction device for the treatment of neglected proximal interphalangeal fracture dislocations. A 44-year-old man with a fracture dislocation of a right ring finger proximal interphalangeal joint was admitted 17 days after the injury. Closed reduction and external fixation were performed using a dynamic traction device and C-arm under a brachial plexus block. Passive range of motion exercise was started after two weeks postoperatively and active range of motion exercise was started after three weeks. The traction device was removed after five weeks. No infection occurred during the traction period. No subluxation or displacement was observed on the X-ray taken two months postoperatively. The active range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint was 90°. The patient was satisfied with the functional result of the treatment with the traction device. The dynamic traction device is an effective treatment for neglected fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint of a finger.
Dorsal dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint is a common injury in the orthopedic department. In most cases, the joint is reduced simply by closed manipulation. However, in rare cases, the joint is not reducible by closed manipulation, therefore, surgery is required. We report on a case of irreducible open dorsal dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint which was surgically treated. Because the flexor tendon interposed between the head of the proximal phalanx and the base of the middle phalanx, we could reduce the joint only after repositioning of the flexor tendon.