First web space plasty using Ilizarov mini fixator in patients with complex hand injuries

Background

Effective treatment and rehabilitation of complex hand injuries are often challenging. Various corrective techniques and approaches have been proposed for the first web space contractures based on a classification system, however, consensus regarding optimal management does not exist.

Method

In this study, we evaluated twelve consecutive patients with the mean age of 46.72 years who underwent first web space dilatation using Ilizarov mini fixator from 2009 to 2020. The tip length during radial/palmar abduction and radial/palmar abduction angles were measured preoperatively, after instrumentation, and in the last follow-up.

Result

The average thumb-index finger distance during Passive Radial Abduction (PRA) increased from 4.3 to 9 cm, and the distance during Passive Palmar Abduction (PPA) decreased from 10.2 to 9.22 cm, the average passive radial abduction angle (PRAA) of the first web space increased from 21.6 to 58.3°, Active Radial Abduction Angle (ARAA) from 20.0 to 49.7°. The average Passive Palmar Abduction Angle (PPAA) increased from 32.5 to 59.1°, and Active Palmar Abduction Angle (APAA) from 30.9 to 47.7° after using Ilizarov mini fixator.

Conclusion

Ilizarov mini fixator provides promising outcomes with the optimal range of motion in severe first web space contractures.