Digital ray reconstruction through distraction osteogenesis: A retrospective study of 82 rays with long-term follow-up

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to present the long-term radiographic results with distraction osteogenesis in traumatic or congenital length discrepancies of long bones of the hand. Methods: The medical records and radiographs of 65 consecutive patients (27 metacarpals and 55 phalanges) with either traumatic or congenital digital length discrepancies were retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up was 8.2 years. The mean distraction period was 21 days with a distraction rate of 4 × 0.25 mm/day. Callus consolidation was obtained in all patients. Results: The bones were lengthened by a mean amount of 17.5 mm, with a mean increase in bone length of 68 ± 17.3%. The mean healing index was 28.57 days/cm. Ray reconstruction with callus distraction can be applied effectively in skeletally immature or mature patients with congenital differences of the hand or amputated fingers. Conclusion: A distraction rate of 1 mm/day proved to be a safe rate of lengthening in both metacarpals and phalanges. © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved