Proximal interphalangeal Joint Replacement : Resurfacing Pyrocarbon versus Silicone Arthroplasty


Published online: Jun 27 2014

Maarten VAN NUFFEL, Ilse DEGREEF, Sofie WILLEMS, Luc DE SMET

From KUL University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium

Abstract

Prosthetic replacement of the proximal interphalangeal joints is an operative treatment for osteo-arhtritis, to preserve the range of motion and the function of the hand. The purpose of this study is to detect the differences regarding pain and function between a silicone implant using a volar approach and a resurfacing implant, placed through a dorsal approach. Patients were reviewed clinically and scored. We found no significant differences in outcome between the two types of implants. However, the complication rate in the resurfacing group was significantly higher. Also, the economic cost of both implants was significantly different. The resurfacing implants were more expensive than the silicone implants.