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Pyrocarbon proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: minimum two-year follow-up
A C Watts1, A J Hearnden, I A Trail
1Wrightington Hospital, Appley Bridge, Wigan, UK. adamcharleswatts@gmail.com
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|May 1, 2012
Summary
Pyrocarbon proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthroplasty offers good pain relief and high patient satisfaction, with an 85% survival rate at 5 years. However, it does not significantly improve joint range of motion.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
- Hand surgery
Background:
- Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthroplasty is a common procedure for treating arthritis.
- Pyrocarbon implants are increasingly used in joint replacement surgeries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes and complications of pyrocarbon PIP joint arthroplasty.
- To determine implant survival rates and patient satisfaction after a minimum of 2 years.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 97 pyrocarbon PIP joint arthroplasties in 72 patients.
- Assessment of subjective outcomes (pain, function, satisfaction) and objective outcomes (range of motion, grip strength, radiographs).
Main Results:
- The primary diagnoses included osteoarthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Twenty-three percent of digits required repeat surgery, and 13% underwent revision.
- Average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 22, with an average pain score of zero.
- No significant improvement in range of motion was observed postoperatively.
Conclusions:
- Pyrocarbon PIP joint arthroplasty demonstrates an 85% survival rate at 5 years with high patient satisfaction.
- The procedure is effective for pain relief but does not enhance joint mobility.