The Pins and Rubbers Traction System for Treatment of Comminuted Intraarticular Fractures and Fracture-Dislocations in the Hand

The authors have developed a new skeletal traction system for comminuted intraarticular fractures and fracture-dislocations in the hand. The system consists of two or three Kirschner wires and rubber bands, and is easy to assemble. It is more compact and comfortable than the banjo splint, and equally effective, and it allows early motion of the affected digits. A description of the technique is followed by the clinical results of seven cases of severe articular injuries in the hand. At the time of follow-up, the average range of the affected PIP joint motion was about 80 degrees. The final active motion of the injured DIP joint ranged from 0 to 40 degrees in flexion and that of the affected thumb (trapezial fracture) was not limited. The average follow-up period was 13.1 months.