Comparing The Efficiency and Outcome of Syringe External Fixators and K-Wire Fixation in Unstable Hand Fractures

Background: Hand fractures are common in surgical practice, with treatment goals focused on achieving maximum bony union, maintaining proper length and alignment, and ensuring normal hand function. The ideal fixation method should also be cost-effective. Objective: To compare the efficiency and outcomes of syringe external fixators with K-wire fixation in managing unstable metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. Patients and Methods: This study included 42 patients with hand fractures (metacarpal or phalangeal), treated at Helwan University Hospital between October 2022 and April 2023. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: 21 treated with syringe external fixators (Group A) and 21 treated with K-wire fixation (Group B). Range of motion (ROM), total active motion (TAM), and quick DASH (qDASH) scores were measured. Results: Group A had a mean ROM of 201.58° ± 43.78° and TAM of 78.82 ± 16.50%, while group B had a mean ROM of 193.42° ± 35.16° and TAM of 75.76 ± 13.54%. The mean quick DASH score was 7.14 ± 13.20 for group A and 9.74 ± 13.18 for group B. Complications included pin tract infections, pin loosening, and deformities, but no significant differences were found between the groups in terms of functional outcomes. Conclusions: Syringe external fixators offer a cost-effective, easy-to-apply method for managing unstable hand fractures, with comparable outcomes to K-wire fixation and fewer complications.