Outcomes of Multiple Digit Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Swanson Arthroplasty Done at a Single Operation

Background: Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthroplasty using a Swanson implant is commonly used for the treatment of PIPJ arthritis despite newer implants being available. Many patients develop arthritis in more than one digit and some tend to have multiple digits operated on in their lifetime. There is paucity of literature on the outcomes of multiple PIPJ arthroplasty in one sitting. The aim of this study is to determine the outcomes of PIPJ arthroplasty using a Swanson implant done for multiple digits at one sitting. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of multiple Swanson PIPJ arthroplasty during a single operation from 2008 to 2018 in 13 patients (43 arthroplasties). We compared pre- and post-operative results of flexion/extension arcs, grip and pinch strength and questionnaires subsequently compared QuickDASH (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand), Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM) and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) scores. Data were analysed with a Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Patients on average attended 5.6 hand therapy sessions over 5.1 months post-operatively. Average flexion/extension arc improved from 31.9° pre-operatively to 37.2° post-operatively. Average grip strength increased from 7.2 kg to 10.2 kg. The QuickDASH, PEM and VAS scores improved in keeping with the reported literature. There were no implant failures. Conclusion: We demonstrate similar outcomes for multi-digit Swanson PIPJ arthroplasty compared to the literature for single digit Swanson PIPJ arthroplasty. We conclude that multi-digit arthroplasty in a single operation is safe and effective. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).