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Pyrocarbon versus silicone proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: a systematic review
Kevin Chan1, Olubimpe Ayeni, Leslie McKnight
1Hamilton, Ontario, Canada From the Divisions of Orthopedic Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery; the Surgical Outcomes Research Center; and the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University.
Silicone and pyrocarbon implants for proximal interphalangeal joint arthritis provide similar pain relief and range of motion. However, pyrocarbon implants show higher complication rates, questioning their superiority.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Proximal interphalangeal joint arthritis is a disabling condition.
- Silicone arthroplasty is a standard surgical treatment.
- Pyrocarbon implants are emerging as an alternative to silicone.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically compare outcomes of silicone versus pyrocarbon arthroplasties for proximal interphalangeal joint arthritis.
Main Methods:
- Computerized literature search for relevant studies.
- Extracted data included demographics, pain relief, range of motion, strength, costs, quality of life, and complications.
Main Results:
- Both implant types provided satisfactory pain relief and similar range of motion.
- Grip and pinch strength outcomes were comparable.
- Pyrocarbon implants had higher rates of revision and salvage procedures due to complications.
Conclusions:
- Pyrocarbon arthroplasty does not show clear superiority over silicone implants.
- Concerns exist regarding higher complication rates with pyrocarbon implants.
- Further rigorous studies are needed to evaluate quality of life and economic impact.