Surface Replacement Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND: In 2012, our unit published our experience with a pyrocarbon proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) implant. Due to high subsidence rates, a decision was made to change to a cemented surface replacement proximal interphalangeal joint (SR-PIPJ) implant. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the change to a cemented implant would improve the subsidence rates.

METHODS: Retrospective review of all patients who had a cemented SR-PIPJ arthroplasty performed from 2011 to 2013 with at least 12 months follow-up.

RESULTS: A total of 43 joints were included with an average follow-up of 26.5 months. There was a significant ( P = .02) improvement in arc of motion with an average satisfaction score of 3.3 (satisfied patient). Subsidence was noted in 26% of joints with a significant difference in range of motion ( P = .003) and patient satisfaction ( P = .001) between the group with and without subsidence.

CONCLUSIONS: The change to a cemented implant resulted in satisfied patients with an improvement in range of motion. The rate of subsidence improved but remains unacceptably high.