The management of acute fracture dislocations of proximal interphalangeal joints: a systematic review

A systematic review was conducted to identify the best management for acute proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations. A study protocol was designed in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Due to limited data in the primary assessment, the hypothesis was tested in a secondary analysis of articles that marginally met the inclusion criteria (i.e. studies that included patients under 18 years of age). A further tertiary analysis was conducted by dividing the studies into closed reduction techniques, open reduction internal fixation and 'other studies' and a narrative synthesis was performed. The study found a higher rate of complications and arthritis in the closed reduction group compared to open reduction internal fixation, suggesting that operative management should be considered for acute PIP joint fracture-dislocations. Level of evidence: III.