Purpose
To evaluate the outcome of a peg bone graft for treatment of distal phalangeal nonunion,
in terms of safety and effectiveness.
Methods
We performed grafts using bone pegs in 13 patients who reported pain and instability
of the fingertip as a result of distal phalanx nonunion. Surgical procedures included
harvesting cancellous and cortical bone from ilium, radius, or ulna. We made a small
incision in the fingertip and placed the bone pegs through the canal created for this
access. In a few cases in which the bone peg did not offer mechanical stability, we
used K-wires for additional support.
Results
All patients had successful union of the distal phalanx without serious complications
in either donor or recipient areas. Range of motion improved postoperatively. An additional
operation was needed in 1 case.
Conclusions
The use of a peg bone graft in the treatment of distal phalanx nonunion offers easy
access to the nonunion area and allows for effortless internal fixation. The bone
contact area was increased, resulting in bone union and stability. Therefore, bone
peg graft could be considered a potential method for the treatment of distal phalanx
nonunion.
Type of study/level of evidence
Therapeutic IV.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
November 8,
2013
Received:
May 7,
2013
Footnotes
This work was supported by a research grant from Inha University.
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2014 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
