Abstract

Malunion of proximal phalanx fractures can lead to considerable functional impairment, especially in the presence of angular or rotational deformities. Established malunions are typically addressed through open corrective osteotomy, whereas the treatment of early malunion is not as well delineated. We present a case of a four-week-old malunion of the proximal phalanx of the fifth finger successfully treated with percutaneous corrective osteotomy and Kirschner wire fixation. This minimally invasive technique made it possible to realign accurately, kept the soft tissue intact, and made it easier to start rehabilitation early. The case shows that there is a small but clinically important time frame during early malunion when percutaneous correction is still possible. This could help avoid the complications that come with open osteotomy. The technical aspects, reasoning behind decisions, and functional effects are examined in relation to the current literature.

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