Brachymetacarpy: Lengthening by callotasis with external fixator. Case report

Abstract

Background: Brachymetacarpy is a lack of normal metacarpal length. The cause may be due to a syndrome, it can be acquired from childhood diseases, or it can arise idiopathically. The incidence is less than 1 in 1000, and the occurrence rate in women is 5 times higher than in men.
Case report: Patient who consulted for the 4th finger of the left hand short and pain in the left finger with functional limitation. RX: Brachymetacarpy of the 4th metacarpal. It was carried out: lengthening by callotasis with Orthofix-type monolateral external fixator. Results: We obtained a favorable result, with a progressive lengthening of the metacarpal of 15 mm and with a good functional result without complications at 2 postoperative years.
Discussion: Surgical correction of brachydactyly is performed primarily for cosmetic reasons. Various methods are used to lengthen the metacarpals. Some authors recommend gradual lengthening through distraction, arguing that this technique is more possible, with a high rate of cosmetic success and a low rate of complications. We emphasize in the resolution of this case, careful preoperative planning, safe intraoperative mounting of the external fixator and strict postoperative follow-up, are essential to avoid the appearance of complications.
Level of evidence: IV.