Acute Arthrodesis of Interphalangeal Joints of the Hand in Traumatic Injuries

Trauma resulting in severe comminution, bone loss, and articular involvement of the fingers is a challenging injury. Osteosynthesis of the digits is nonviable when there is an inability to restore a stable articular surface adequately. Acute arthrodesis of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints may be an option in such scenarios. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of finger joint arthrodesis in the setting of trauma, in terms of fusion rates and clinical outcomes.

Patients with injuries treated via acute finger arthrodesis between 2010 and 2012 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Complete finger amputations requiring replantation were excluded. Finger arthrodesis was performed acutely via intraosseous cerclage wires, Kirschner wires, or tension band wiring. Fusion rates were determined by plain radiography, and clinical outcomes were assessed with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score.

A total of 11 patients were recruited. All patients were males with an average age of 35.3 years (range: 21-63 years). None of the cases involved the thumb, and there was an equal distribution of injury amongst the fingers. Nine of the 11 patients involved the distal interphalangeal joint with the remaining involving the proximal interphalangeal joint. Radiologic union was achieved in 9 out of 11 patients, and the average time to fusion was 75.5 days. The average DASH score for the patients was 16.5 (10.8-22.5). All patients were able to return to their premorbid occupation, with average time to return to work of 104.3 days (59-168 days). There were no cases of infection or reoperation.

We propose that posttraumatic acute arthrodesis of the finger joints is a viable treatment in situations in which there is difficulty in restoring the articular congruity, with early return to work and good function.