[External fixation for support in soft tissue reconstruction in hand surgery].

A mini fixator system was used to assist the operative correction of soft-tissue flexion contractures. The external fixator served as a tool for gradual correction and to secure joint position after soft-tissue release. Following wound healing, certain fixator components were unlocked and joint mobilisation initiated. Correction involved a contraction of the first web-space as well as flexion contractures of the index, middle, ring, and small fingers. The fixators were removed after four to six weeks. Complications related to the fixator equipment were not observed. The spread from thumb to index finger tip was increased from 3.5 to 16.5 cm. The functional result in sustained grip strength reached a value of 82% compared to the uninjured opposite side.