Risks of Reoperation in Surgically Treated Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx.

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors and the rate of reoperation after closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) of isolated closed single-digit proximal phalanx fractures. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted for patients who underwent CRPP of non-thumb closed proximal phalanx fractures between 2010 and 2020 at two level-I trauma centers and two community teaching hospitals. Demographics, fracture, and treatment characteristics were collected. The primary outcome measure was reoperation. Secondary outcome measures were complication and reoperation specifically for digital stiffness. Results: Of the 115 patients who underwent surgical treatment, 46 patients (40.0%) had a complication and 13 patients (11.3%) underwent reoperation at a mean of 6.7 months-most of which (84.6%) were for digital stiffness. Conclusions: Surgeons and patients may be aware that CRPP of closed extra-articular proximal phalanx fractures carries considerable rates of complication and reoperation. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic III.