Proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: the volar approach

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand surgery
• Reconstructive surgery

Background:

• Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthroplasty is a common procedure for joint reconstruction.
• Traditional surgical approaches may disrupt extensor tendon function, limiting early motion.
• The Swanson implant is frequently used for PIP joint arthroplasty.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and simplicity of the volar approach for PIP joint arthroplasty using the Swanson implant.
• To assess the feasibility of immediate postoperative motion following this surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• The study focuses on the volar surgical approach for PIP joint arthroplasty.
• Swanson implants are utilized for joint reconstruction.
• The extensor tendon system is deliberately preserved during the procedure.
• Local anesthesia is employed to facilitate intraoperative assessment.

Main Results:

• The volar approach significantly simplifies the surgical procedure for PIP joint arthroplasty.
• Preservation of the extensor tendon system allows for immediate postoperative motion.
• The use of local anesthesia enables active and complete evaluation of the surgical technique during the operation.

Conclusions:

• The volar approach is a simplified and effective method for PIP joint arthroplasty with Swanson implants.
• This technique facilitates early functional recovery by enabling immediate motion.
• Intraoperative evaluation under local anesthesia confirms the technique's viability.