International Journal of Tropical Medicine
ISSN: Online 1818-779XISSN: Print 1816-3319
Abstract
Rolando fractures, characterized by severe comminution at the base of the first metacarpal, pose significant surgical challenges. Traditional internal fixation methods may fail in extensively comminuted fractures, necessitating alternative minimally invasive strategies. This retrospective study evaluates clinical and functional outcomes following the use of a modified Suzuki frame without rubber bands for severely comminuted Rolando fractures. Fifteen consecutive patients treated between July 2012 and November 2015 at the University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, underwent closed reduction and fixation using a modified Suzuki frame consisting of two K‐wires (1.6 mm and 1.5 mm), without rubber bands. Postoperatively, patients began immediate mobilization. Follow‐up evaluations were conducted at 5 weeks and 3 months postoperatively, assessing fracture healing, grip and pinch strength, rotational deformities, and complications. All fractures healed within 5 weeks (mean duration: 33.8 days, range: 27‐41 days). At 3‐month follow‐up, no rotational deformities were observed. Mean grip and pinch strength were both 78% compared to the contra lateral hand. The Kapandji opposition score was equal to the uninjured thumb in eight patients. Minor complications included transient sensory neuropraxia in one patient and superficial pin‐site infection in two patients, all resolved without sequelae. Only one patient demonstrated a residual 2‐mm intra‐articular step‐off but reported a favorable clinical outcome without further intervention. The modified Suzuki frame technique represents a simple, minimally invasive and effective solution for managing severely comminuted Rolando fractures, providing reliable fixation, immediate mobilization and satisfactory functional outcomes with minimal complications.
How to cite this article:
K.C. Mathew, G. Rohin, R. Parikshith Ram, T.T. Annamalai and Zakir Hussain Mohamed. Modified Suzuki Frame for the Treatment of Difficult Rolando Fractures.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/makijtm.2024.4.225.230
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1816-3319/makijtm.2024.4.225.230