Hand function outcome in closed small bone fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation by mini plate or closed crossed pinning: a randomized controlled trail

32 patients with closed metacarpal and phalangeal fractures were randomized to operative treatment through either open reduction and internal fixation with a mini-plate or closed reduction and percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wires. Patients were assessed over 2 year follow-up for range of motion, patient-reported disability, and grip strength. Results demonstrated a significant difference at 3 months between groups for Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) in favour of the percutaneous pinning, though by 2 years, results for all outcomes were similar between groups. Union by 3 months was documented in all patients in both groups.