SURGICAL-MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOCHONDRAL FRACTURES OF THE PHALANGES AND METACARPALS - A SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

We report a technique of reducing and stabilizing osteochondral fractu res of the metacarpals and phalanges, using the principle that the spa ce within a joint is only ''potential.'' Accurate reduction of the fra gment and accurate approximation of the capsular rent effectively trap s and holds the fragment without the need for internal fixation. Prese rvation of all soft tissue attachment to the fragments and early super vised mobilization ensure healing of both the bony and hyaline cartila ge components.