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PIP Joint Fracture and Dislocation Treatment

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PIP Joint Fracture and Dislocation Treatment

The proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, located between the first and second bones of the fingers, plays a crucial role in hand function. Fractures and dislocations of the PIP joint commonly result from trauma, such as falls, sports accidents, or direct blows. These injuries cause pain, swelling, deformity, and loss of function if not treated properly. Timely management restores normal function and prevents long-term complications, such as arthritis, stiffness, or deformity.

Causes of PIP Joint Fractures and Dislocations

PIP joint fractures and dislocations typically occur due to high-energy impacts or forces applied to the finger. Common causes include:

  • Sports Injuries: Contact sports, like basketball, football, or volleyball, often involve direct impacts to the fingers, leading to fractures or dislocations.
  • Falls: Falling on an outstretched hand transfers force through the arm, often resulting in fractures or dislocations in the PIP joint.
  • Trauma: Accidents, such as car crashes or industrial injuries, can cause severe fractures and dislocations of the PIP joint.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a PIP joint fracture or dislocation include:

  • Severe pain, especially with movement
  • Swelling and bruising around the affected joint
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger
  • Limited range of motion or inability to move the finger
  • Numbness or tingling if nerve damage occurs

In cases of dislocation, the joint may appear out of place with the bones shifted or displaced.

Diagnosis

To diagnose PIP joint fractures and dislocations, a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination, is essential. Doctors often perform X-rays to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best treatment approach. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may help evaluate soft tissue damage or fractures not visible on X-rays.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and type of injury. It may involve non-surgical methods or more invasive surgical procedures.

Non-Surgical Treatment:

  • Reduction and Immobilization: For simple fractures or dislocations, doctors may perform a closed reduction to realign the joint manually. Afterward, the finger is immobilized in a splint or cast for several weeks to promote healing.
  • Buddy Taping: For stable fractures, doctors may use buddy taping, taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger for added support during healing.

Surgical Treatment:

  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): For complex or displaced fractures, surgery may realign the bones and secure them with screws, plates, or pins, ensuring proper healing and joint function.
  • Closed Reduction with Percutaneous Pinning: In some cases, surgeons use pins to stabilize the joint after realignment without large incisions.
  • Ligament Repair: If the dislocation damages ligaments or soft tissues, surgery may be necessary to repair the ligaments and restore joint stability.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and strength after treatment. It typically includes:

  • Physical Therapy: After healing begins, patients start range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and improve flexibility. Strengthening exercises help regain full function.
  • Gradual Return to Activity: Depending on the injury’s severity, patients may return to normal activities after a few weeks of healing. However, they must avoid excessive stress on the injured joint during recovery.

With prompt and appropriate treatment, most individuals with PIP joint fractures or dislocations can expect a good outcome. Without proper management, however, complications such as joint stiffness, arthritis, or deformity may arise, limiting hand function in the long term. Early surgical intervention and post-operative rehabilitation ensure a positive outcome and a full return to daily activities.

 

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.