Subcondylar fossa reconstruction for malunion of fractures of the proximal

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phalanx in children. Simmons BP. Peters TT. Journal of Hand Surgery - St Louis. [JC:ia9] 12(6):1079-82, 1987 Nov. Subcondylar fractures of the proximal or middle phalanx occur at the neck of the phalanx, usually as a result of a crush injury, and almost exclusively in the pediatric age group. The distal fragment rotates dorsally and the degree of displacement may be misjudged if a true lateral radiograph is not obtained. If malunion occurs, there is a block to flexion. Subcondylar fossa reconstruction by removal of bone through a palmar approach removes this bony block. Three patients are presented in whom this procedure allowed an average increase in flexion of 41.7 degrees.