Authors of section

Authors

Renato Fricker, Matej Kastelec, Fiesky Nuñez, Terry Axelrod

Executive Editor

Chris Colton

Proximal phalanx, articular (head), oblique

Unicondylar fractures of the proximal phalanx can be transverse, short or long oblique, or comminuted. Typically they are the results of a sports injuries, caused by axial load combined with lateral angulation of the finger.
Condylar fractures tend to be very unstable and should usually be treated operatively. If conservative treatment is attempted, secondary displacement, leading to angulation of the finger, often ocurrs.

Short and long oblique fractures
Short oblique fractures typically originate in the intercondylar notch.
Long oblique fractures more often originate through one of the condyles, splitting proximally towards the diaphyseal cortex on the side of the uninjured condyle.

Caveat
These fractures are rare, but difficult to treat. There is an increased risk of joint stiffness resulting from these fractures.

It is wise to use magnifying loupes in these procedures. Gentle and precise handling throughout the procedure is mandatory.

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