The Efficacy Of Pennig Minifixator On The Treatment Of Pediatric Simple Syndactyly

Objective: To evaluate Pennig external fixation frame for the management of pediatric simple syndactyly.Methods: From March 2014 to July 2014, 5 cases with congenital cutaneous syndactyly were recruited, which included 2 girls and 3 boys. Among these patients, three of them involved left hands, the other two involved right hands. In these cases, we used the Pennig minifixator to extend the web space and soft tissue regularly. A Z-plasty of syndactylies was implemented when the skin is enough.Results: Followed up between 12-16 months, all the cases got enough skin and no infection, cutaneous necrosis and nonunion occurred. We were satisfied with the appearance and function of the fingers. The assessment results were as follows: The average Vancouver Score was 0.8(range 0-2).All the cases had grade 0 web creep. The total active motions of all the patient were excellent. The visual analog scale score was 0 for pain, 1(range 0-2) for appearance, and 1.2(range 0-2) for function.Conclusions: Based on the principle of strain-stress, we can get enough skin to perform a reconstruction of the web commissure by using the Pennig minifixator to stretch the web space of syndactylies. We have successfully avoided skin grafting and the damage of blood supply, thus reducing the prevalence of skin necrosis and the formation of scar. An excellent function and good appearance are finally exhibited. In conclusion, the Pennig external fixation frame is an effective device in the management of syndactyly and worths further study.