What is the advantage of the double ball-joint with the Pennig II Wrist Fixator?
The double ball-joint allows accurate fracture reduction in all planes after the fixator has been applied. It also permits the Gupta maneuver to be performed, which allows stable correction of the dorsal angulation with the hand in a neutral position.
With the Pennig II Wrist Fixator, how critical is the alignment of the distal ball of the double ball-joint with the center of rotation of the wrist (lunate-capitate joint line)?
It is critical if mobilization of the wrist at three to four weeks postoperatively is desired. In this case, the fixator should be mounted in the frontal plane. Wrist mobilization should only be performed if the ulnar side of the radius is stable. It is not necessary if mobilization is not planned. In this case, the fixator can be mounted at 45 degrees to the frontal plane, leaving the AP and lateral views clear for X-rays.