Indicated for dorsal fracture dislocations of the PIP.
Frequently Asked Questions
For Surgeons
What kind of fracture is the PIP Fix indicated for?
Indicated for the treatment of unstable dorsal fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the fingers in which external skeletal fixation as provided by the PIP Fix alone is sufficient to obtain and maintain concentric reduction of the fracture dislocation during bone and soft tissue healing. If manual reduction of the joint is not possible, the surgeon must use his or her best judgement to determine the optimal Transverse Pin location based on the relevant alignment of the soft tissues with the skeletal bones.
How often should the elastic bands be changed?
It is very important that the elastic bands be installed at all times because they provide the translating force that keeps the middle phalanx reduced. To avoid any breakage of the bands due to age, it is recommended that they be changed every day. The patient should keep some of the bands with them at all times.
Can I wash my hand with the PIP Fix on?
Yes. Follow your doctor’s advice about when it is okay to get the pins wet, but the device will not be damaged by soap or water. Use of petroleum based ointments can degrade the latex elastic bands. It is best to not get these ointments on the bands or the pin cap pulleys.
Should I exercise my finger?
Yes. You should have received an information pamphlet from your doctor or therapist that shows how to change the bands and suggestions for hand exercises. If you did not receive the Patient Information for the PIP Fix, click here to download it.
How long should the PIP Fix be worn?
The PIP Fix should be worn until the fracture and the soft tissues are healed. This typically is a minimum of six to eight weeks.
For Therapists
What kind of fracture is the PIP Fix indicated for?
Indicated for the treatment of unstable dorsal fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the fingers in which external skeletal fixation as provided by the PIP Fix alone is sufficient to obtain and maintain concentric reduction of the fracture dislocation during bone and soft tissue healing. If manual reduction of the joint is not possible, the surgeon must use his or her best judgement to determine the optimal Transverse Pin location based on the relevant alignment of the soft tissues with the skeletal bones.
How often should the elastic bands be changed?
It is very important that the elastic bands be installed at all times because they provide the translating force that keeps the middle phalanx reduced. To avoid any breakage of the bands due to age, it is recommended that they be changed every day. The patient should keep some of the bands with them at all times.
Can I wash my hand with the PIP Fix on?
Yes. Follow your doctor’s advice about when it is okay to get the pins wet, but the device will not be damaged by soap or water. Use of petroleum based ointments can degrade the latex elastic bands. It is best to not get these ointments on the bands or the pin cap pulleys.
Should I exercise my finger?
Yes. You should have received an information pamphlet from your doctor or therapist that shows how to change the bands and suggestions for hand exercises. If you did not receive the Patient Information for the PIP Fix, click here to download it.
How long should the PIP Fix be worn?
The PIP Fix should be worn until the fracture and the soft tissues are healed. This typically is a minimum of six to eight weeks.
For Patients
What kind of fracture is the PIP Fix indicated for?
Indicated for the treatment of unstable dorsal fracture dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the fingers in which external skeletal fixation as provided by the PIP Fix alone is sufficient to obtain and maintain concentric reduction of the fracture dislocation during bone and soft tissue healing. If manual reduction of the joint is not possible, the surgeon must use his or her best judgement to determine the optimal Transverse Pin location based on the relevant alignment of the soft tissues with the skeletal bones.
How often should the elastic bands be changed?
It is very important that the elastic bands be installed at all times because they provide the translating force that keeps the middle phalanx reduced. To avoid any breakage of the bands due to age, it is recommended that they be changed every day. The patient should keep some of the bands with them at all times.
Can I wash my hand with the PIP Fix on?
Yes. Follow your doctor’s advice about when it is okay to get the pins wet, but the device will not be damaged by soap or water. Use of petroleum based ointments can degrade the latex elastic bands. It is best to not get these ointments on the bands or the pin cap pulleys.
Should I exercise my finger?
Yes. You should have received an information pamphlet from your doctor or therapist that shows how to change the bands and suggestions for hand exercises. If you did not receive the Patient Information for the PIP Fix, click here to download it.
How long should the PIP Fix be worn?
The PIP Fix should be worn until the fracture and the soft tissues are healed. This typically is a minimum of six to eight weeks.
For Buyers
What billing codes are used with the PIP Fix?
Care must be taken to bill each patient correctly. Click here for downloadable billing guidelines.