Proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: current trends and evidence-based practice.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthroplasty has a 60-year history.
• Degenerative, post-traumatic, and inflammatory arthritis commonly affect the PIPJ.
• Surgical intervention is considered for symptomatic PIPJ arthritis unresponsive to conservative management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence-based indications for PIPJ arthroplasty.
• To analyze various PIPJ arthroplasty designs and surgical techniques.
• To evaluate implant outcomes and salvage options for failed PIPJ implants.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of PIPJ arthroplasty.
• Analysis of surgical techniques, implant designs, and rehabilitation protocols.
• Examination of clinical controversies and outcomes data.

Main Results:

• PIPJ arthroplasty is a reliable option for specific PIPJ arthritis types.
• Predictable pain relief and functional improvement are achievable with current methods.
• Various implant designs and surgical approaches exist with differing outcomes.

Conclusions:

• PIPJ arthroplasty provides a good and reliable solution for symptomatic PIPJ arthritis.
• Adherence to implantation and rehabilitation protocols ensures satisfactory patient outcomes.
• Further research into implant-specific outcomes and salvage techniques is warranted.