Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis: treatment with Herbert screw

From 1996 to 2000, 20 patients with a mean age of 53 underwent 20 arthrodeses with Herbert screws. There were 16 (80%) distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) and 4 (20%) thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint arthrodeses. Average follow-up was 25 months (range, 6-39 months). The diagnoses included rheumatoid arthritis in 10 patients, degenerative arthritis in 4, and post-traumatic arthritis in 6. Arthrodesis relieved pain and restored stability in all patients. Solid osseous union occurred in 19 patients (95%). The average interval to fusion was 8 weeks for DIP and 12 weeks for IP joint arthrodesis. Solid osseous union occurred in 19 patients (95%). The average interval to fusion was 8 weeks for distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis and 12 weeks for interphalangeal joint of the thumb. There were three complications: one delayed union, one nonunion because of a short screw, and one dorsal skin necrosis with amputation. It was shown that distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis with a Herbert screw is a technique with several advantages: good clinical results, high rates of fusion, early mobilization, and the screw does not need to be removed after the fusion heals. Potential complications may be avoided by using the Herbert mini-screw.     

Instructional Course Lecture. Arthrodesis of the interphalangeal joints with headless compression screws

Interphalangeal arthrodesis is a reliable method of pain relief for arthritic proximal and distal interphalangeal joints in the fingers. Indications include osteoarthritis, acute trauma, chronic reconstruction for trauma, rheumatoid and other inflammatory arthritides, and at the distal interphalangeal joint, chronic mallet finger deformity and unreconstructible flexor tendon defects. Solid arthrodesis imparts stability to the digital skeleton. Headless compression screws can be reproducibly inserted and are a good method to provide fixation adequate to accomplish interphalangeal arthrodesis. Surgical technique involves a dorsal incision and preparing the skeleton for good bony apposition. Exact technique for screw insertion depends on the specific screw used. Union rates range from 85% to 100% in published studies, with time to union of 7 to 10 weeks.     

Treatment of Symptomatic Distal Interphalangeal Joint Arthritis with Percutaneous Arthrodesis: a Novel Technique in Select Patients

Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint is a reliable means of achieving pain relief in a symptomatic DIP joint afflicted by a variety of degenerative, inflammatory, or posttraumatic conditions. Successful arthrodesis is more reproducible when rigid compression of the joint is achieved. The emergence of an increasing number of commercially available headless or variable pitch compression screws reflects the growing trend among hand surgeons to utilize rigid stabilization of the DIP joint so that motion at more proximal levels can be initiated immediately without affecting arthrodesis rates. Successful closed percutaneous DIP arthrodesis can be achieved in a patient with hypertrophic osteoarthropathy, passively correctable deformity, and patients at increased risk for perioperative soft tissue complications associated with open arthrodesis. We present a novel percutaneous DIP fusion technique utilizing a cannulated headless compression screw in a select group of patients. The sagittal plane diameters of the distal and middle phalanges are templated. Cannulated headless compression screws, 2.4 and 3.0 mm, with short or long terminal threads at the leading end of the screw are selected based upon patient-specific anatomic considerations. Pain-free status and radiographic fusion were achieved in both patients (gout arthropathy, n = 1; posttraumatic arthritis, n = 1) at an average of 6 weeks postoperatively. Our current indications, along with pearls and pitfalls with this technique, are reviewed. In select patients, this percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous in comparison with open fusion techniques.     

Use of a headless compressive screw for distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis in digits: clinical outcome and review of complications

PURPOSE: Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) or thumb interphalangeal joints can be necessary to treat pain, deformity, or instability associated with arthritis. Compression and rigid fixation are thought to influence fusion rates and time to union favorably. The purpose of the study was to review the clinical outcome and complications associated with the use of a fully threaded headless compression screw for DIPJ arthrodesis. METHODS: Twenty-seven distal interphalangeal or thumb interphalangeal fusions were performed with an axial Mini-Acutrak screw in 22 patients. Charts, surgical reports, and preoperative and postoperative x-rays were reviewed to determine the incidence, time to union, and complications. The minimal follow-up period was 3 months. RESULTS: Twenty-three of the 27 arthrodeses achieved bony union. Complications included symptomatic nonunion (n=1, treated with secondary fusion), asymptomatic nonunion (n=2, left untreated), infection (n=4; 2 patients required implant removal that resulted in nonunion but declined revision) and nail bed injury (n=3). CONCLUSIONS: The Mini-Acutrak screw technique achieves healing rates that are comparable with but not superior to other techniques. Its main advantages are ease of execution, fully buried hardware, and early mobilization; however, the procedure is associated with complications and meticulous technique is required to avoid them. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV.     

应用微型钢板与交叉克氏针融合手指近指间关节的疗效对比

目的探讨应用微型铜板螺钉与交叉克氏针融合手指近指间关节的手术疗效。方法对53例79指近指间关节内骨折、骨缺损患者,分别采用微型钢板螺钉和交叉克氏针固定进行关节融合,其中A组30例47指行微型钢板螺钉固定,B组23例32指行交叉克氏针固定。术后分别对并发症、骨愈合情况以及功能恢复进行比较。功能恢复情况按照TAM功能评定标准进行比较。结果术后随访4～24个月,平均11个月。A组无感染及皮肤坏死,无延迟愈合、骨不连及旋转畸形。融合关节临床愈合时间为6～8周,平均7．3周,X片示骨性愈合时间为8～9周;B组针道感染3指,旋转畸形3指．延迟愈合4指,无骨不连。融合关节,临床愈合时间为7～15周,平均11．2周。X片示骨性愈合时间为10～16周。优良率A组为90．7％,B组为67．1％。术后并发症：A组在邻近关节僵硬、局部不适及肌腱粘连等方面均低于B组。结论微型铜板固定近指间关节融合明显优于交叉克氏针固定。     

微型钛板螺钉融合手指近指间关节的临床研究

目的 探讨应用微型钛板螺钉融合手指近指间关节的手术疗效.方法 采用塑形后的微型钛板螺钉对29例(44指)男性患者的手指近指间关节进行融合,手术均采用背侧入路.结果 术后29例均获得4～7个月的随访,伤口无感染及皮肤坏死,融合关节临床愈合时间为6～8周,X线片骨性愈合时间为2～3个月,无延迟愈合、骨不连或畸形愈合.结论 本术式操作简单,掌握容易;缩短骨性愈合时间;大大降低骨不连的发生率、畸形愈合率、针道感染及骨髓炎的发病率.     

Surgical treatment of degenerative osteoarthritis of the fingers

Degenerative osteoarthritis of the long fingers is rare and surgical management is often necessary if there is joint pain, however this indication should not only be based on radiographic imaging. The specific anatomical problems of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints are described. The surgical approach for each joint is described as well as functional management, in particular that of the extensor apparatus. Mobility should always be preserved for the MCP, arthroplasties are recommended for the PIP except for the index, and arthrodesis for the DIP. The different and most frequently used implants are described as well as the indications and expected results. The indications are discussed in relation to the limited results in the literature as well as the preferences of a panel of French hand surgeons.     

Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis with the Herbert headless compression screw: outcomes and complications in 64 consecutively treated joints

Background  

Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint is indicated for the treatment of arthritis. While several techniques have been recommended, the use of headless compression screws has grown in popularity. Rates of union reported vary widely, ranging from 80% to 100%, with most studies based on small series. The purpose of this study was to review the outcomes and complications associated with DIP joint arthrodesis using the Herbert headless compression screw in a large case series.     

Arthrodesis for degenerative disease of the hallux metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints

Arthrodesis of the hallux metatarsophalangeal (MTP) or interphalangeal (IP) joint is a sound surgical solution to degenerative disease of these joints. Where conservative measures have failed, MTP or IP arthrodesis can alleviate pain and normalize gait. Preoperative planning should include evaluation of the skin, bone quality, and range of motion of the involved and adjacent joints. The technique of joint preparation described allows for easily individualized fusion position and maintenance of length. In patients with adequate bone stock, the fixation techniques described provide for compression and obviate the need for removal for most patients. Where bone stock is questionable, plate fixation can provide stability, improving results. With careful patient selection, preoperative planning, and conservative postoperative care, predictable results can be obtained with these techniques.     

Der Fingermittelgelenkersatz mit Pyrocarbonprothesen

OBJECTIVE: Prosthetic joint replacement to reduce pain and maintain function of the proximal interphalangeal joint. INDICATIONS: Symptomatic arthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint with preservation of the collateral ligaments, sufficient bone support, and intact or at least reconstructable extensor tendons. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Lack of stability, e. g., as a result of rheumatoid arthritis or destruction of the ligaments caused by an accident. Nonreconstructable extensor tendons. Florid or chronic infection. Lack of patient compliance. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Dorsal approach to the proximal interphalangeal joint. A triangular tendinous flap with pedicle, based distally on the insertion of the medial band, is lifted up, leaving the lateral bands intact. The joint surfaces are resected while maintaining the palmar plate and the collateral ligaments. The trial prosthesis is fitted, its position is checked, and the final unconstrained prosthetic components are inserted using a press-fit technique. The dorsal aponeurosis is reapproximated. RESULTS: 20 patients were treated for posttraumatic or idiopathic arthritis with 24 pyrolytic carbon PIP prostheses, and a follow-up examination was carried out after an average of 15 months (6-30 months). Surgical management was changed from arthroplasty to arthrodesis in three cases. For the remaining prostheses, an average range of motion of 50 degrees was achieved for the proximal interphalangeal joint. On the visual analog scale (VAS; 0: no pain, 10: incapacitating pain), the patients suffered few symptoms (VAS: 0-3). 80% of patients said they were satisfied with the outcome of the operation. In three cases (one infection, two dislocations) the prostheses had to be removed and arthrodesis performed. Migration of the distal components was observed on the radiographs in five cases, and of the proximal components in four cases, although this did not have any effect on the functional parameters. The development of a painless noise ("squeaking") was noticed in nine out of 21 prostheses. However, as with prosthetic migration, this did not cause any functional deficits.     

微型钛板螺钉融合手指近指间关节的临床研究

目的 探讨应用微型钛板螺钉融合手指近指间关节的手术疗效.方法 采用塑形后的微型钛板螺钉对29例(44指)男性患者的手指近指间关节进行融合,手术均采用背侧入路.结果 术后29例均获得4～7个月的随访,伤口无感染及皮肤坏死,融合关节临床愈合时间为6～8周,X线片骨性愈合时间为2～3个月,无延迟愈合、骨不连或畸形愈合.结论 本术式操作简单,掌握容易;缩短骨性愈合时间;大大降低骨不连的发生率、畸形愈合率、针道感染及骨髓炎的发病率.     

A technique for isolated arthrodesis for inflammatory arthritis of the talonavicular joint

There are few reports in the literature documenting the efficacy of isolated arthrodesis for inflammatory arthritis of the talonavicular joint. Accordingly, we reviewed a single surgeon's experience with this procedure in twenty consecutive cases from this patient population. A technique using indirect joint distraction and the combined use of screw and staple fixation was employed. Solid arthrodesis was noted radiographically in 19 of 20 feet (95%) at an average of 11 weeks. Complications included one non-union, one deep venous thrombosis, and one superficial wound infection. Objective results were graded as excellent in 16 cases, good in 3 cases, and poor in one case. Subjectively, 18 patients were satisfied and one patient dissatisfied with the results of the procedure. It is concluded that isolated arthrodesis is an effective procedure for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis of the talonavicular joint, offering significant pain relief and improved function. Additionally, the use of indirect joint distraction and fixation with screws and staples is a reliable technique associated with an excellent fusion rate.     

Failure of Small Joint Arthrodesis from Resorption Around a Compression Screw in a Patient with Lupus-Associated Arthritis Mutilans: Case Report

We report the unusual case of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-associated arthritis mutilans. Arthritis mutilans is a variant of erosive arthritis that is more commonly reported with psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis and not with SLE. Joint fusion has been shown to be the most effective measure to preserve bone length and prevent further erosive joint changes in arthritis mutilans. We attempted to enhance success of a thumb interphalangeal joint fusion in our patient by adding compression across the fusion with implant screws, given the difficulty of achieving solid bone fusion ordinarily. Osteolysis around the compression screw resulted in arthrodesis failure. We were finally able to achieve successful fusion with iliac crest corticocancellous bone grafts and Kirschner wire fixation. Implant athroplasty in patients with bone loss is risky as it often furthers joint instability because of bone resorption around the prosthesis. This is a point of caution regarding use of any implant (including large screws) in patients with arthritis mutilans, as osteolysis around the implant may occur.     

应用钩钢板内固定技术治疗mallet骨折

目的 介绍应用钩钢板内固定技术治疗mallet骨折的手术方法 及疗效.方法 2006年8月-2008年2月,应用钩钢板内固定技术治疗25例mallet骨折患者,其中Ⅰ B型18例,ⅡB型7例.采用2.0 mm Medicon微型直钢板制备1孔钩钢板,切开复位内固定骨折,术后行限制性远指间关节早期功能锻炼.结果 所有患者术后获2～18个月(平均10个月)随访,骨折均顺利愈合,愈合时间平均5周.术后疼痛程度和关节屈伸活动度评价:优14例,良9例,可2例,差0例;优良率为92%.术后未发生严重并发症.结论 应用钩钢板切开复位内固定技术治疗mllet骨折,复位牢固可靠,内固定物不固定骨折块和关节,允许早期关节活动,有效降低术后关节疼痛和关节活动受限,是治疗撕脱骨折块大于末节指骨基底关节面1/3 mallet骨折的有效方法 .     

前路松解复位后路内固定治疗难复性寰枢关节脱位

目的：探讨难复性寰枢关节脱位的手术治疗方法。方法：对3例难复性寰椎前脱位的病例经口咽入路切断颈长肌、头长肌、前纵韧带和寰枢侧块关节囊，施行松解复位术，同期行后方固定植骨融合术。后方固定方法包括：经寰枢侧块关节螺钉固定、寰枢侧块钉板固定和借助于枢椎椎弓根螺钉的枕颈固定。结果：3例均获得了解剖复位和植骨融合。结论：经口咽入路的寰枢关节松解复位术可使难复性脱位的寰枢关节获得充分复位，松解复位术是一种安全、有效的治疗方法。     

Mini-screw fixation for the treatment of proximal interphalangeal joint dorsal fracture-dislocations

PURPOSE: Surgical intervention may be necessary to treat unstable dorsal fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the hand. One method of stabilization is open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of ORIF for unstable dorsal fracture-dislocations of the PIP joint using mini-screws via a volar approach. METHODS: A retrospective chart review with clinical follow-up evaluation was performed on 9 patients who had ORIF for unstable dorsal fracture-dislocations of the PIP joint. The fracture fragment(s) from the middle phalangeal base were reduced and secured using mini-screws. RESULTS: A clinical evaluation was performed at an average of 42 months after surgery. The average arc of motion for the involved PIP joint was 70 degrees (range, 55 degrees -90 degrees ). The average PIP joint motion in the 2 patients with 1 fracture fragment was 85 degrees , and the average PIP joint motion for the remaining 7 patients was 65 degrees . One joint was subluxated with an intra-articular screw. Nine patients had an average flexion contracture of 14 degrees . Seven patients had no pain, and 2 had pain only with heavy activity. CONCLUSIONS: Open reduction and internal fixation of unstable dorsal PIP joint fracture-dislocations using mini-screws can be considered if the fracture fragment(s) can accommodate the screws. The procedure attempts to restore the concave contour of the middle phalangeal base and permits early protected range of motion. The procedure should be approached cautiously, especially in the presence of comminution. Proximal interphalangeal joint range of motion is usually compromised; 8 of our 9 joints had a residual flexion contracture. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.     

Ankle arthrodesis for failed total ankle replacement

Between 1999 and 2005, 23 failed total ankle replacements were converted to arthrodeses. Three surgical techniques were used: tibiotalar arthrodesis with screw fixation, tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with screw fixation, and tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with an intramedullary nail. As experience was gained, the benefits and problems became apparent. Successful bony union was seen in 17 of the 23 ankles. The complication rate was higher in ankles where the loosening had caused extensive destruction of the body of the talus, usually in rheumatoid arthritis. In this situation we recommend tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with an intramedullary nail. This technique can also be used when there is severe arthritic change in the subtalar joint. Arthrodesis of the tibiotalar joint alone using compression screws was generally possible in osteoarthritis because the destruction of the body of the talus was less extensive. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis fusion with compression screws has not been successful in our experience.     

Correction of swan neck deformity in rheumatoid arthritis using a new lateral extensor band technique

Swan neck deformity is a progressive and disabling condition that commonly affects rheumatoid arthritic hands. During a 4-year period, 101 fingers in 43 patients had this deformity corrected using a new procedure combining the distally based extensor lateral band technique described by Littler and the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS)-palmar plate pulley introduced by Zancolli. The ranges of motion of the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints were assessed pre-operatively and 12 months after surgery. An average PIP joint hyperextension of -13.3 degrees was converted to +13.4 degrees . The ranges of motion of the proximal and DIP joints were significantly different (Student's t-test). No patient suffered recurrence of the deformity during an average follow-up of 20 months. This new technique improves some unappealing aspects of previous techniques and provides a stable and reliable correction of swan neck deformity.     

ARTHRODESIS OF THE DISTAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT USING A BIOABSORBABLE ROD AS AN INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL

There are several fixation techniques for arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint. Since February 1999 we have used a bioabsorbable (poly-L-lactide, PLLA) rod as an intramedullary nail for arthrodesis of 15 distal interphalangeal joints and one interphalangeal joint of the thumb. The advantages include the absence of protruding hardware that would require removal, and technical simplicity. Preoperative diagnoses included degenerative arthritis in five patients, post-traumatic arthritis in 10 patients, and non-union after arthrodesis with crossed Kirschner wires in one patient. All patients were observed until there was clinical and radiographic evidence of fusion with the mean interval to fusion of 8 weeks (range 6-12). There were two cases of minor intermittent local swelling, which resolved. Fixation with a PLLA rod for arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint is a simple and effective technique.