Volar Plate Repair for Chronic Injury

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Chronic finger injuries, particularly instability of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, can significantly impair function.
• Delayed treatment for these injuries presents unique challenges, with limited data on long-term outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy of volar plate repair for chronic finger instability.
• To assess functional recovery, patient satisfaction, and radiographic results following delayed surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients undergoing volar plate repair for chronic instability (>6 months post-injury).
• Minimum 2-year follow-up assessing range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) scores, return to work/sport, and radiographic evidence.
• Inclusion criteria required chronic instability, with a minimum 2-year follow-up period.

Main Results:

• Ten patients with a mean injury-to-repair time of 9 years (range: 10 months to 30 years) were analyzed.
• High patient satisfaction (90% extremely satisfied) and complete resolution of pre-operative pain were reported.
• Significant improvements in PIP joint hyperextension (from 15-60° to 0-3° in 9/10 patients) and full flexion were achieved.
• Functional outcomes included return to work for all previously impaired patients and return to sport for affected individuals.

Conclusions:

• Volar plate repair is a successful treatment for chronic finger instability, yielding positive outcomes even when performed many years after the initial injury.
• The procedure demonstrates significant benefits in patient satisfaction, pain reduction, joint mobility, and functional restoration, supported by radiographic evidence.