A NOVEL DYNAMIC TRACTION SPLINT DESIGN FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PROXIMAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT DORSAL FRACTURE AND DISLOCATION: A FEASIBILITY STUDY

Abstract

Proximal interphalangeal joint fracture and dislocation (PIPJ-DFD) is one of the most common PIPJ fractures. While effective in managing PIPJ-DFD, surgical interventions can result in complications such as post-operative scarring and compromised joint function. Conservative approaches require a skilled clinician or splinting practitioner to manually fashion a fitted splint for individual patients for effective treatment. This manual process requires iterations of on-the-spot adjustments and is costly due to the time-consuming process and expertise required. The thesis’s main objectives are to develop a dynamic traction splint design for the management of PIPJ-DFD and to evaluate the feasibility of the developed splint design via cadaveric and mechanical study.

A dynamic traction splint was designed and evaluated via mechanical and cadaveric studies. The developed splint design had shown to fulfil the conditions to manage PIPJ-DFD. As observed through radiographic data, the splint had shown potential for the management of unstable PIPJ-DFD non-operatively. Further studies in the form of a clinical trial and a retrospective study are recommended for in-vivo assessment of the splint design.