Distal interphalangeal joint silicone interpositional arthroplasty: surgical technique and functional outcome

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Degenerative arthritis commonly affects the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint.
• Pain and loss of function are primary symptoms of DIP joint arthritis.
• Arthroplasty offers an alternative to arthrodesis for joint preservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of silicone interpositional arthroplasty for DIP joint arthritis.
• To assess pain relief, range of motion, and stability after DIP joint arthroplasty.
• To determine the long-term outcomes and complication rates of the procedure.

Main Methods:

• Silicone interpositional arthroplasty was performed on 31 digits in 18 patients (17 osteoarthritis, 1 rheumatoid arthritis).
• Patients' mean age was 58.3 years.
• Follow-up averaged 72.2 months, with evaluations of pain, range of motion, and stability.

Main Results:

• All patients reported effective elimination of preoperative pain.
• Average active range of motion was 32.2 degrees, with an average extension lag of 12.7 degrees.
• Lateral stability was maintained in most cases; three implants were removed due to complications (wound issues, prosthesis fracture).

Conclusions:

• Silicone interpositional arthroplasty is an effective treatment for alleviating pain in degenerative distal interphalangeal joint arthritis.
• The procedure can preserve joint motion and stability, though complications such as implant fracture and wound problems can occur.
• Long-term follow-up indicates sustained pain relief and functional improvement for most patients.