Lateral approach to proximal interphalangeal joint implant arthroplasty

Arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint is indicated for arthritic conditions that fail to respond to conservative treatment. This article describes the lateral approach for the insertion of a proximal interphalangeal joint implant arthroplasty. Clinical experience has confirmed good results in the nonlaborer with arthroplasty of all the digits. Ten surgeries have averaged 68 degrees of motion with a range from 50 degrees to 80 degrees . No patient has required a revision 3 years after surgery.