Management of the traumatized joint of the finger

Selection of the reconstructive technique for the traumatized joint requires a careful consideration of the condition of the injured and adjacent joints, the needs and desires of the patient, and an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of the available options. The MP joint is the key to a useful arc of motion, providing 77 per cent of the total arc of flexion. Every effort should be made to preserve its maximum pain-free movement. PIP joint motion, although important in maintaining grip strength, can more readily be sacrificed to provide stability when MP joint motion is normal. Arthrodesis provides a pain-free stable joint with a sacrifice of motion. It may be indicated in young patients in whom heavy loading is likely; in joints with a fixed, painful deformity, instability, or loss of motor; and in the salvage of failed implant arthroplasty. Arthrodesis is generally contraindicated where physes are open. PIP joint arthrodesis is well tolerated in the index finger with minimal morbidity. Motion of MP joints and PIP joints of the long, ring, and small fingers, however, should be preserved using other techniques when possible. Resection arthroplasty may be useful in selected cases of post-traumatic arthroplasty where other treatment techniques are not available. Soft tissue interposition techniques are useful in specific cases. Eaton volar plate arthroplasty provides good results where 50 per cent of the articular surface is preserved. The technique, however, requires precision to avoid rotational malalignment. Perichondrial resurfacing provides a reasonable alternative in patients younger than 40 years of age who have a relatively well maintained joint contour, preferably involving a single joint surface. Prior infection is a relative contraindication. MP joints generally produce better results than PIP joints. Swanson interposition arthroplasty remains the most widely accepted implant technique, providing improved stability and earlier motion than simple resection arthroplasty. Reported arcs of motion range from a minimum of 29 degrees to a maximum of 85 degrees, with results generally better for MP than for PIP joints. Complications are common and include implant fracture, lateral instability of the PIP joint, and, occasionally, synovitis. Patient satisfaction, however, has been consistently reported as high. The use of Swanson arthroplasty in acute cases remains controversial, although several authors report favorable results. Silicone arthroplasty is contraindicated in joints with open physes. Allograft small joint reconstruction provides replacement bone and articular surface without donor site morbidity. Experience with the technique, however, has been limited. Increasing concern over the transmission of infectious diseases may make this option less desirable.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)