The innervation of the proximal interphalangeal joint and its application in neurectomy

In an anatomic study of 64 fingers, we demonstrated that the proximal interphalangeal joint is innervated by branches of the palmar digital nerves. The number of articular branches ranges from two to four and their origins from the digital nerve are between 2 and 8 mm from the proximal interphalangeal joint. In a clinical series of 24 neurectomies in 21 patients, there was a significant improvement in pain and range of motion in 22 fingers. We conclude that neurectomy is a therapeutic option in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the proximal, interphalangeal joint.