Intraoperative fabrication of bone tamps for indirect reduction of depressed articular segments.

The use of bone tamps for indirect reduction of depressed articular segments is an established method of treatment for intra-articular fractures in a variety of joint injuries. Customized bone tamps can be fabricated intraoperatively using commonly available instruments and supplies consisting of Steinmann pins and T-handled chucks. The technique combines the use of bone tamps through carefully created metaphyseal windows, fluoroscopic guidance, packing with cancellous bone, and adequate fixation. This treatment methodology can allow for a minimally invasive or soft tissue preserving approach for the treatment of some intra-articular fractures while achieving anatomic reduction of the joint surface.