Treatment of first web space contracture using mini-external fixator

Objective To study the surgical treatment of first web space contracture using mini-external fixator and its clinical outcome. Methods Eleven patients with first web space contracture at 13 sides of the hands underwent 3 times of mini-external fixator-aided operation from September 2007 to December 2010.The breadth of first web space contracture at the last operation was recorded.First web space contracture occurred at 8 sides of the right hand and at 5 sides of the left hand,severe and moderate first web space contracture occurred at 9 and 4 sides of the hand,respectively. Results All operations were successful.The patients were followed up for 3-8 months（mean 5 months）.The mean thumb adduction was increased 30 degrees.The distance between the radial side of metacarpal phalangeal joint of the index finger and the ulnar side of interphalangeal joint of the thumb was increased 3cm.Pin site infection occurred in 1 patient and semidislocation of the first carpometacarpal joint occurred in 1 patient after operation. Conclusion Mini-external fixator-aided surgery is a safe and effective procedure for first web space contracture with rather good clinical outcomes.