Simultaneous anterograde screw arthrodesis of distal interphalangeal joint and silastic proximal interphalangeal joint replacement for osteoarthritis

We treated six patients with the combination of anterograde distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis and Swanson prothesis proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty on the same finger. The results showed both bony union and flexibility, without cases of nail deformity, wound complications, tip hypersensitivity or malalignment.

Postoperative deviation in Wassel types II and III radial polydactyly: a retrospective analysis of 73 thumbs

This study examined the relationship between osteochondral stability and postoperative deviation at the interphalangeal (IP) joint in Wassel types II and III radial polydactyly. Cases with cartilaginous fusion between the radial distal phalanx and the proximal phalanx were classified as type IIB, while the remaining cases were categorized as type IIA. In conventional surgery, the cartilage was routinely resected on the radial aspect of the proximal phalangeal head, while in the modified procedure, this was preserved to avoid postoperative radial deviation. Postoperatively, there was no significant difference between both procedures in type IIA thumbs regarding IP joint deviation, whereas in type IIB/III thumbs, IP joint deviation was significantly higher in the conventional group (mean 19° [SD 16°]) compared to the modified group (mean 0.8° [SD 4.9°]). Surgeons should exercise caution against excessive cartilage excision to preserve osteochondral stability during procedures, especially for type IIB and III radial polydactylies.Level of evidence: IV.

Progressive Pseudorheumatoid Dysplasia of Childhood (PPRD)-A Case Series with Recurrent c.740_741del Variant

Progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia (PPRD) is an autosomal recessive arthropathy, affecting school-aged children. It is characterized by progressive degeneration of the articular cartilage. The majority of the pathogenic variations are found in exon 2, exon 4, and exon 5 of the putative gene, CCN6 (WISP3). Three unrelated individuals with clinical diagnosis of PPD were included in this study. Detailed clinicoradiological evaluation was attempted with brief literature review. Exome sequencing was performed in all three cases. All the pathogenic variations detected in our cohort were located in exons 2 and 4 of WISP3 gene. Though the clinicoradiological features are already well described, this study in north India highlights the occurrence of a recurring pathogenic variant. The c.740_741del variant was a recurrent pathogenic variant seen in all three patients in this cohort. This may be a common pathogenic variant in the North Indian population; however, a larger cohort needs to be studied before drawing final conclusions. A proper molecular diagnosis is a must to end the diagnostic odyssey, safeguarding patients with PPRD from unnecessary use of drugs like corticosteroids.

Recurrent Localized Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor of the Left Ring Finger: A Case Report and Literature Review

Here, we report the case of recurrent swelling and pain in the proximal interphalangeal joint of the left ring finger, which was later diagnosed as a localized tenosynovial giant cell tumor in a young adult female. The first presentation was at the same anatomical site four years prior. Examination at presentation showed a firm skin-colored nodule in the volar aspect of the left ring finger. The swelling was seen to be partly attached to underlying structures and was non-tender. After a careful physical examination and plain radiograph imaging of the hand, the two differential diagnoses considered were tenosynovial giant cell tumor and ganglion cyst. A surgical excision was performed, and histopathologic evaluation showed features consistent with a tenosynovial giant cell tumor, localized type. The resection margins were clear of tumor. The patient had no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Postoperative physiotherapy was recommended. No recurrence was seen after postoperative surgical follow-up for one year. This report highlights the importance of histopathologic evaluation and confirmation of clear surgical margins in the management of tenosynovial giant cell tumors. In recurrent cases, surgical re-excision with clear margins provides good clinical outcomes. Before surgical excision, patients should be informed about the biologic nature of the lesion and the high risk of recurrence. The management modalities to prevent recurrence and the need for long-term follow-up should also be discussed with the patient.

Distribution of nerve endings in human thumb interphalangeal joint

This study aims to quantitatively analyze the distribution of encapsulated nerve endings in the human thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint capsule. There are three types of nerve endings. Type-I nerve endings (Ruffini-like ending) sense pressure changes, Type II (Pacini-like ending) nerve endings contribute to the kinesthetic sense, and Type III (Golgi-like ending) nerve ending provides proprioceptive information. We dissected five right thumbs IP joints from freshly frozen cadavers (5 men). The mean age of the cadavers at the time of death was 63.4 years (55-73). Sections were stained with the hematoxylin-eosin and antiprotein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) to identify encapsulated nerve endings. Transverse sections were cut and divided into volar, dorsal, and then into two equal parts, proximal and distal. The density of encapsulated nerve endings compared to volar versus dorsal and proximal versus distal regions was examined. This study showed that type 1 nerve endings were more common in the distal parts of the IP joint (p < 0.05). Also, type 3 nerve endings were observed in the thumb IP joint. There was no difference between regions in type II and type III nerve endings. The current study demonstrates that the distribution of encapsulated nerve endings in the IP joint is different from the PIP and DIP joints. Moreover, further studies are required to understand the thumb's physiology.

Plantar Plate Repair using Suture Anchors for Chronic Plantar Plate Rupture of the first Interphalangeal Joint in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Introduction

Injuries of the great toe are common sports-related injuries; however, isolated traumatic plantar plate tears at the interphalangeal (IP) joint are relatively rare. Here, we present a pediatric case of a chronic plantar plate tear of the IP joint of the great toe that was difficult to diagnose definitively, which delayed surgical treatment.

Case Report

An 11-year-old girl was injured when she collided with her right great toe while using a jump box during gymnastics. She felt pain in her great toe that progressively worsened despite conservative treatment at an initial clinic, and she experienced hyperextension of the IP joint. She was referred to our outpatient clinic because of diagnostic difficulty and increased symptoms, such as pain and swelling of the plantar side of her right great toe. Physical examination revealed swelling and tenderness on the plantar aspect of the IP joint and the impossibility of active flexion of the IP joint. The passive range of motion was 35° during extension. Ultrasonography revealed a low-echoic area on the plantar plate on the phalangeal side. Thus, we diagnosed the patient with a chronic plantar plate tear of the IP joint of the right great toe and performed surgical treatment 8 months after its onset. The plantar plate ruptured at the insertion of the proximal phalanx; however, the insertion of the distal phalanx remained intact. The plantar plate was repaired using suture anchors, and excellent short-term postoperative results were obtained at the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Isolated plantar plate rupture is difficult to diagnose definitively in the acute phase because of the lack of specific findings on physical and radiographic examinations. Plantar plate rupture should be suspected as a differential diagnosis in patients with great toe injuries due to axial load and hyperextension forces. Plantar plate repair using suture anchors may be a useful option for treating plantar plate tears of the IP joint of the great toe when its insertion into the distal phalanx is preserved, even during the chronic phase.

Republication of "Mucous Cyst at the Interphalangeal Joint of the First Toe Caused by Contact Pressure With the Second Toe due to Hallux Valgus: A Case Report"

A 77-year-old woman presented with a mucous cyst on the lateral aspect of the interphalangeal joint of the first toe caused by contact pressure with the second toe from hallux valgus. She complained of discomfort and discharge from the left first toe for approximately 4 months. Physical examination showed the second toe pressing strongly against the first toe due to hallux valgus and discharge from the skin on the lateral aspect of the interphalangeal joint of the first toe. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a cystic lesion at the same level. The patient underwent a modified scarf osteotomy of the first metatarsal for hallux valgus to resolve the contact pressure between the toes-considered the cause of the mucous cyst-and resection of mucous cyst. Forefoot weight bearing was allowed 6 weeks after surgery. As of 1 year after surgery, she has had no recurrence of the cyst. The score on the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale improved from 59/100 points to 92/100. This outcome suggests that hallux valgus correction should be considered when a mucous cyst is associated with contact pressure due to a hallux valgus deformity. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports of a mucous cyst caused by contact pressure between the first toe and second toe due to hallux valgus.

Denervation as a Treatment for Arthritis of the Hands: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature

Joint denervation has been proposed as a less invasive option for surgical management of hand arthritis that preserves joint anatomy while treating pain and decreasing postoperative recovery times. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the efficacy and safety of surgical joint denervation for osteoarthritis in the joints of the hand. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases were searched from January 2000 to March 2019. Studies of adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the hand who underwent joint denervation surgery were included. Two reviewers performed the screening process, data abstraction, and risk of bias assessment (Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies). This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (#125811). Ten studies were included, 9 case series and 1 cohort study, with a total of 192 patients. In all studies, joint denervation improved pain and hand function at follow-up (M = 36.8 months, range = 3-90 months). Pooled analysis of 3 studies on the first carpometacarpal joint showed a statistically significant (P < .001) reduction in pain scores from baseline (M = 6.61 ± 2.03) to postoperatively (M = 1.69 ± 1.27). The combined complication rate was 18.8% (n = 36 of 192), with neuropathic pain or unintended sensory loss (8.8%, n = 17 of 192) being the most common. This review suggests that denervation may be an effective and low-morbidity procedure for treating arthritis of the hand. Prospective, comparative studies are required to further understand the outcomes of denervation compared with traditional surgical interventions.

Outcomes of Keller Gap Arthroplasty for Plantar Hallux Interphalangeal Joint Ulcers in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Hallux ulcers are known for their recurrence and associated risk for future amputations. Traditional nonsurgical external offloading methods have poor compliance rates, and the data is sparse on surgical offloading of hallux ulcers. We performed this study to analyze the outcomes of Keller excision gap arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in patients with a neuropathic plantar hallux interphalangeal joint (IPJ) ulcer in patients with diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 105 diabetic patients with a plantar hallux IPJ ulcer who underwent a Keller excision gap arthroplasty between December 2014 and June 2020 was done. A total of 122 great toes had been operated upon for hallux IPJ ulcers. We studied the long-term wound healing rates from patient records and then did a prospective survey of the postreview period.

RESULTS

All the hallux IPJ ulcers healed well in the immediate postoperative period. Six patients reported a recurrence of the ulcer at the original site during a mean follow-up period of 30 months. For these 6 patients, the mean time to recurrence of ulcer after operation was 2.5 years.

CONCLUSION

At an average of 30 months, we found the Keller gap arthroplasty for treatment of noninfected and nonischemic diabetic foot hallux IPJ ulcers was associated with an ulcer recurrence rate of 5%.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, cohort study.

The Syringe External Fixator: Short- and Medium-Term Functional Outcomes From This Inexpensive and Customizable Treatment for Comminuted Intra-Articular Fractures of the Hand

PURPOSE

Comminuted intra-articular fractures and fracture dislocations of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal joints are challenging. Dynamic external fixation, permitting early joint motion while still minimizing forces across the healing joint, can result in acceptable postoperative active range of motion (AROM). However, some fractures are not initially stable enough for early dynamic motion; further, many available dynamic external fixation systems are costly and cumbersome. We reviewed our experience using an external fixator made from a 1-mL syringe and K-wires and report outcomes using it as a static fixator, dynamic fixator, or configured as a static fixator and then converted to a dynamic fixator in the clinic.

METHODS

Patients with intra-articular fractures and fracture dislocations of the MCP and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints treated between 2014 and 2020 using syringe external fixators were retrospectively reviewed. We reviewed demographics, mechanisms, treatment types and durations, and postoperative AROM, as well as complications including infection, pin loosening, nonunion, hardware failure, and need for further surgery. Patients were analyzed by the level of joint injury (MCP versus PIP) and by treatment pattern.

RESULTS

After excluding 23 patients with 25 joint injuries who were lost to follow-up or had inadequate outcome data, 27 patients with 29 joint injuries were reviewed. The average follow-up was 171 days after surgery. The postoperative AROM at the MCP level averaged 55° for static fixation and 30° for static-to-dynamic fixation. The postoperative AROM at the PIP level averaged 64° for static fixation, 66° for static-to-dynamic fixation, and 80° for dynamic fixation. Three pin site infections and 2 loose pins were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The syringe external fixator is an inexpensive, effective, and customizable treatment for intra-articular MCP and interphalangeal fractures and fracture dislocations, and results in acceptable postoperative AROM outcomes and complication rates.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Effect of the position of the interphalangeal joint on movements of the trapeziometacarpal joint during thumb opposition

The Kapandji test is a simple method to score thumb opposition; however, the position of the interphalangeal joint of the thumb during this test has not been described. We aimed to quantitatively examine the effect of the thumb interphalangeal joint position on movements of the trapeziometacarpal joint during thumb opposition using the Kapandji test. The Kapandji test was carried out in 20 healthy participants during thumb interphalangeal joint extension and flexion. Movements of the joints and the activity of thenar muscles were recorded using motion capture and electromyography, respectively. We found that interphalangeal joint extension increased the trapeziometacarpal joint movement and thenar muscle activity compared with interphalangeal joint flexion, which contributed to thumb opposition at Kapandji Positions 0-6. These findings suggest the position of the thumb interphalangeal joint affects the trapeziometacarpal joint during thumb opposition, and assessment of thumb opposition using the Kapandji test is best done with the thumb interphalangeal joint in extension.

Platelet-Rich Plasma for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case Series

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease characterized by severe inflammation that leads to degradation of articular cartilage and the formation of bony erosions. Currently, certain anesthesiologist-led pain management clinics have begun to take on a collaborative role in the treatment of patients with RA, as this progressive disease impairs work capacity due to chronic pain. We present three clinical cases in which platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was used for the treatment of RA in patients seeking a new therapy for pain control and improved range of motion, specifically in certain joints of the hand. The Patient Activity Scale II was employed as a standardized method to assess RA disease severity, recorded on the day of injection, at one month, at three months, and at six months. All of the included patients, ages 49, 60, and 63, had an established diagnosis of RA affecting the proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints of the hand. Over the course of six months, two out of three patients reported a 20% reduction in pain from the initial visit and a 30% improvement in overall well-being. The third patient noted a 50% decrease in pain from the initial visit and a 50% improvement in overall well-being. PRP treatment consistently resulted in functional improvement for each of the three patients treated, while also reducing long term pain and inflammation. Initial clinical and laboratory studies have shown that autologous plasma rich in platelets serves as a source of an abundance of growth factors once activated. The multitude of these growth factors injected into and around the diseased joints improves functionality in patients with RA indicating PRP may be a safe and beneficial therapy in patients with RA primarily affecting the joints of the hand.

Paediatric Dupuytren's Disease in a Child of Indian Ethnicity: A Case Report and Literature Review

Paediatric Dupuytren's disease is a very rare clinical entity. Dupuytren's disease has preponderance to older males of Celtic heritage. We present a case of Dupuytren's disease in an eight-year-old boy of Indian ethnicity who presented with a progressive flexion contracture of his right ring finger for a duration of six months. On examination, he had an isolated 60-degree flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint with thickening of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. This was consistent with Dupuytren's cord and contracture. He proceeded to theatre for a dermofasciectomy, with subsequent histological confirmation of Dupuytren's disease. We performed a review of the literature and identified 21 reported cases of Dupuytren's disease affecting the hand in the paediatric population. This is a rare report of Dupuytren's disease affecting a child of Indian ethnicity.

Synostosis of the interphalangeal joint: an uncommon cause of post-fracture digital stiffness

Loss of motion and stiffness after fracture of the digits are most commonly a result of soft tissue contracture and adhesions. However, stiffness can also have a bony etiology. We present a case of synostosis of the thumb interphalangeal joint after non-operative treatment of a closed fracture.

Spontaneous Rupture of Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon: Clinical and Occupational Implications, Treatment Approaches and Prognostic Outcome in Non-Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Retrospective Study

Background

Spontaneous rupture of extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon is a rare condition often found in patients actively having regular extensive use of hands and fingers especially the thumb. In this article, we report 7 cases of spontaneous rupture of EPL tendon and investigate the associated factors and treatment outcome.

Methods

Retrospectively, the databases for the 7 cases were retrieved and studied. These cases represent all cases of spontaneous rupture of EPL in our institution. Demographic data, clinical presentation, any history of trauma or steroid injection, laboratory and clinical findings suggestive for rheumatoid arthritis, co-morbidities and imaging findings were obtained. In addition, the operative technique and findings were retrieved. Moreover, histopathological studies and follow-up assessment were included.

Results

Six males and one female were included. The mean age was 45.2 years. No prior history of trauma, rheumatological disease or steroid use was detected in any patient. All patients experienced prodromal pain in the radial side. Clinical examination was the most effective diagnostic measure. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to confirm the diagnosis and to look for other abnormalities that may predispose to rupture. Five patients underwent extensor indicis proprius to EPL tendon transfer employing Pulvertaft weave technique and one patient underwent primary repair as there was a little gap in the tendon ends. In this study, one patient refused any treatment. All patients achieved a favorable outcome at the last follow-up.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of spontaneous ruptures of EPL tendon can be confirmed through clinical examination and MRI for patients with restricted thumb movement even with the absence of any identifiable predisposing risk factor. During surgery, detailed attention must be drawn towards the tendon ends which can have unusual gaps and bone abnormalities.

Denervation for Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Osteoarthritis

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical and functional outcomes of proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint denervation using a volar approach in the treatment of PIP joint osteoarthritis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 11 cases treated from June 2007 to June 2016. The patients were identified and outcomes collected through a single institution's registry, collecting demographic data, comorbidities, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Disorders of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.

RESULTS

The ring finger was the most commonly treated. The VAS for pain improved from 7.8 to 1.4, and the DASH questionnaire improved from 43.6 to 8.7. The PIP joint active range of motion also improved from 52° to 79°. Two patients reported postoperative digital paresthesia that resolved spontaneously. There were no major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Proximal interphalangeal joint denervation is a safe technique. It achieves good clinical results and, in case of failure, a more traditional and aggressive operation remains possible.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

[Research progress in artificial metacarpophalangeal joint and interphalangeal joint prostheses]

Objective

To summarize the research progress in artificial metacarpophalangeal joint and interphalangeal joint prostheses.

Methods

The research literature on artificial metacarpophalangeal joint and interphalangeal joint prostheses at home and abroad was reviewed and summarized from anatomy, prosthesis design, and material development.

Results

The artificial joint replacement can correct deformity, relieve pain, and improve function immediately. In the past 50 years, many researches have focused on the design and material of prostheses and surgical technique of joint replacement. There are three types of prostheses, including hinged limit-type-prosthesis, semi-limit-type-prosthesis, and non-limit-type-prosthesis. The prostheses have their own advantages and disadvantages, the long-term effectiveness of joint replacement is not ideal.

Conclusion

The metacarpophalangeal joint and interphalangeal joint prostheses with more anatomical structure and biocompatible materials are needed.

Rate of Development of Hallucal Interphalangeal Degenerative Joint Disease After First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis: A Retrospective Radiographic Analysis

The development of hallux interphalangeal joint (IPJ) arthritis after an arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint has been established in the literature. However, the significance has not been well reported. A retrospective, radiographic review of patients who had undergone a first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis was performed. The Coughlin classification for degree of arthritic degeneration, hallux abductus angle, and hallux interphalangeus angle were measured in 107 radiographs of 103 patients preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative angles were measured immediately following surgery at approximately 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months. We found that the hallux abductus angle had decreased in the patients postoperatively; however, the hallux abductus interphalangeus angle increased on average after first metatarsophalangeal fusion. The majority of patients started with a Coughlin classification I of the hallux IPJ, which remained unchanged over the postoperative period, with no statistically significant difference in IPJ degeneration in the patients with or without fusion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In addition, no patients had a symptomatic hallux IPJ postoperatively within our limited study period. Further prospective studies would be beneficial with longer follow-up times to assess IPJ degeneration following first metatarsophalangeal joint fusions. Levels of Evidence: Level III: Retrospective, comparative study.

Modified Extension Block Technique for Bony Mallet Injury of the Hallux

Bony mallet injury of the hallux is uncommon. In the few reports of this injury, authors have described surgical treatments such as closed reduction with percutaneous pinning and open surgical fixation with Kirschner wires or a suture anchor. However, the appropriate surgical management for this injury remains controversial. In this article, we describe a case of bony mallet injury of the hallux repaired with the modified extension block techniqueusing 3 Kirschner wires. This method is an effective and simple treatment to allow anatomic reduction of the displaced articular fracture fragment without incision, residual hardware, or the complications associated with open surgical treatment.

Mallet Fractures of the Thumb Compared With Mallet Fractures of the Fingers

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to look for differences in mechanism, radiographic findings, and treatment between mallet fractures of the thumb and mallet fractures of the index through small fingers.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 24 mallet fractures of the thumb and 392 mallet fractures of other digits. We compared demographics, injury factors (side, dominant hand, time between injury and first visit, and injury mechanism), subluxation, fragment size, treatment, and time from injury to final evaluation between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Mallet fractures of the thumb presented for treatment sooner after injury (2.9 vs 13 days on average), had less fragment displacement (27% vs 33%), and less articular involvement (39% vs 46% on average). None of the mallet fractures of the thumb had radiographic evidence of subluxation, whereas 25% of mallet fractures of other fingers had initial or later subluxation.

CONCLUSIONS

Mallet fractures of the thumb are not likely to subluxate.

Functional Fusion Angle for Thumb Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis

BACKGROUND

A thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint arthrodesis is typically performed in 0° to 30° of flexion; most daily activities involve increased flexion at the IP joint to facilitate pinch and grip. This study evaluates the preferred thumb IP joint position with certain tasks of daily living to determine a more satisfactory angle.

METHODS

Twenty-eight healthy volunteers were splinted at various degrees (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, bilaterally) with thumb orthotics, leaving the tip free, to mimic various angles of IP fusion. Participants underwent power tasks (pouring from a gallon jug, opening/closing a tight jar, lifting a heavy glass, and opening a door), timed precision tasks (writing, buttoning/unbuttoning a shirt, translating coins, zipping/unzipping a jacket, and opening/closing Velcro), as well as pinch and grip strength testing. All tasks were performed both at baseline (without any splinting) and with the thumb splinted in each angle. Participants used a 10-point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to rate the ease of each task as well as their overall satisfaction at baseline and at each of the various angles for their dominant and nondominant hand. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were conducted for outcomes, with P < .05 denoting statistical significance.

RESULTS

Power tasks were best accomplished at 0° for the nondominant hand and 0° to 30° for the dominant hand. Precision tasks were preferred at 15° for both dominant and nondominant hand. Grip strength was best at 15° and 0° for the nondominant and dominant hand, respectively. Pinch was equivocal between 0° and 30° for the nondominant hand and from 15° to 30° for the dominant hand. VAS ratings were most similar to baseline at a fusion angle of 15° followed by 30° for the dominant thumb and 30° followed by 15° for the nondominant thumb.

CONCLUSIONS

A thumb IP fusion angle of 15° to 30° is a functional and preferred angle of thumb IP joint positioning for various activities of daily living.

The functional range of motion of the finger joints

The purpose of this study was to measure the functional range of motion of the finger joints needed to perform activities of daily living. Using the Sollerman hand grip function test, 20 activities were assessed in ten volunteers. The active and passive range of motion was measured with a computerized electric goniometer. The position of each finger joint was evaluated in the pre-grasp and grasp positions. The functional range of motion was defined as the range required to perform 90% of the activities, utilizing the pre-grasp and grasp measurements. The functional range of motion was 19°-71°, 23°-87°, and 10°-64° at the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joints, respectively. This represents 48%, 59%, and 60% of the active motion of these joints, respectively. There was a significant difference in the functional range of motion between the joints of the fingers, with the ulnar digits having greater active and functional range. The functional range of motion is important for directing indications for surgery and rehabilitation, and assessing outcome of treatment.

"Swan neck deformity" of the second toe corrected by flexor digitorum longus to flexor digitorum brevis tenodesis

"Swan neck deformity" of the second toe is a rare deformity. It is a hyperextension of the proximal interphalangeal joint. The patient may complain of painful callosity underneath the proximal interphalangeal joint. Surgical correction should be considered if conservative treatment fails to relieve the pressure point. The optimal surgical option for this deformity has not yet been defined. We report a case of swan neck deformity of the second toe that was successfully corrected by flexor digitorum longus to brevis tenodesis.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV: Case Report.

Open surgery versus nonoperative treatments for paediatric trigger thumb: a systematic review

The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the outcome of interphalangeal (IP) joint motion in children undergoing open surgical release, splinting, and passive exercising therapy for the treatment of paediatric trigger thumb. We conducted an online literature search of seven major databases. Only studies with a mean follow-up of at least 12 months were considered for inclusion. Seventeen retrospective studies and one prospective study met all the inclusion criteria. They reported on the results of surgery (634 children, 759 thumbs), splinting (115 children, 138 thumbs), and passive exercising (89 children, 108 thumbs). The mean follow-up periods were 59 (surgery), 23 (splinting), and 76 months (exercising), respectively. Full IP joint motion without residual triggering was achieved in 95% of all children undergoing surgery, in 67% of children treated with continuous splinting, and 55% after passive exercising. Based on the low level of evidence available, it seems that open surgery resulted in more reliable and rapid outcomes compared with nonoperative treatment.

Open surgery versus nonoperative treatments for paediatric trigger thumb: a systematic review

The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the outcome of interphalangeal (IP) joint motion in children undergoing open surgical release, splinting, and passive exercising therapy for the treatment of paediatric trigger thumb. We conducted an online literature search of seven major databases. Only studies with a mean follow-up of at least 12 months were considered for inclusion. Seventeen retrospective studies and one prospective study met all the inclusion criteria. They reported on the results of surgery (634 children, 759 thumbs), splinting (115 children, 138 thumbs), and passive exercising (89 children, 108 thumbs). The mean follow-up periods were 59 (surgery), 23 (splinting), and 76 months (exercising), respectively. Full IP joint motion without residual triggering was achieved in 95% of all children undergoing surgery, in 67% of children treated with continuous splinting, and 55% after passive exercising. Based on the low level of evidence available, it seems that open surgery resulted in more reliable and rapid outcomes compared with nonoperative treatment.

Large synovial osteochondromatosis arising from the interphalangeal joint of the thumb: a case report and review of the literature

A 38-year-old woman presented with a very large synovial chondromatosis arising from the interphalangeal joint of the thumb. The tumor surrounded the interphalangeal joint and its size was approximately 3 cm. The range of motion was almost fused. Plain radiographs showed an extra-osseous tumor shadow with calcifications. The patient had no local recurrence at one year of follow-up after marginal resection of the tumor and synovectomy. Because this case showed no osteoarthritic changes, it can be classified as primary synovial chondromatosis with a tumor-like nature. Based on the clinical course and pathological report, our synovial chondromatosis case can be classified as Milgram stage 3. Our case report is unique in three respects: i) origin from the interphalangeal joint of the thumb, ii) a single lump of mass and iii) extremely large size. To our knowledge, a similar type of synovial chondromatosis has not been previously reported in the English literature.