The S-Quattro in the management of sports injuries of the fingers.

Abstract

Intra-articular phalangeal fractures of the small joints of the hand are difficult sports injuries to manage. The Stockport Serpentine Spring System, abbreviated to S-Quattro was developed by the senior author as an external fixator to treat these fractures. We present the largest series of patients with sports injuries treated with the S-Quattro. Twenty patients with these fractures were treated over a three-year period. The injured joint was distracted after inserting two pins percutaneously into normal phalangeal bone. Two serpentine springs were then inserted between the pins applying distraction to the fracture site. The fixation devices were removed in clinic between 4 and 6 weeks. Objective analysis revealed an average arc of movement of the affected joint of 94 degrees at an average follow-up of 14 months. The mean DASH score was 5 indicating mild impairment. All of the patients were satisfied with the results and the radiographic appearances were satisfactory. The S-Quattro is a versatile system that permits some movement of the injured joint while maintaining reduction. It is relatively free of complications with good results. We advocate the routine use of the S-Quattro in view of its inherent simplicity and the good results it produces with these difficult sports injuries.