Ipsilateral osteochondral grafting for finger joint repair

A method for reconstructing articular osteochondral defects of the joint surfaces of the fingers is described. An osteochondral graft was harvested from the distal or proximal side of the second or third carpometacarpal joint of the ipsilateral hand. The graft was subsequently transplanted to the site of the defect in the proximal or distal interphalangeal joint. Ten cases with a follow-up period of more than 2 years were reviewed. The mean angular deformity decreased from 33 degrees to 4 degrees, and the mean active range of motion increased from 22 degrees to 38 degrees. Plain x-ray films revealed good joint congruity, and no donor site morbidity was appreciated. This treatment approach may be particularly useful in children.