Flexible implant arthroplasty in the proximal interphalangeal joint of the hand

Between 1966 and 1981, 812 proximal interphalangeal joints were reconstructed by the senior author using the flexible silicone rubber implant resection arthroplasty method. Within this series, a group of 182 patients with 424 proximal interphalangeal joint implants were available for a detailed clinical and roentgenographic review. Increased motion in a more functional arc with good pain relief and a favorable bone response pattern were noted in most cases after surgery. Complications were rare and included implant dislocation or fracture, recurrence of deformity, and infection. The highest complication rate was noted in implant reconstructions performed to correct rheumatoid swan-neck deformities.