Distal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Using Intramedullary and Interosseous Fixation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint arthrodesis is a common procedure.
• Various fixation techniques exist with reported nonunion rates ranging from 0% to 20%.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a refined technique for DIP joint arthrodesis.
• To evaluate the efficacy and complication rates of this modified fixation method.

Main Methods:

• A refined technique using an intramedullary Kirschner wire and an interosseous wire for DIP and interphalangeal (IP) joint fusion.
• Application in 24 joint arthrodeses across 19 patients.

Main Results:

• Achieved a nonunion rate of 4% in 24 procedures.
• Reported a minor complication rate of 12%.
• Demonstrated consistency in osteosynthesis with a low nonunion rate.

Conclusions:

• The refined technique offers a simple and effective method for DIP joint arthrodesis.
• Advantages include no protruding hardware, consistent fusion, and technical ease.
• This approach leads to a low nonunion rate in surgical fusions.