Metacarpophalangeal Joint Silicone Implant Arthroplasty

Abstract

Silastic metacarpophalangeal joint replacement has been used successfully to treat patients with inflammatory arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis of the hand, for many years. Initially, patients can expect satisfactory relief of pain, improved alignment, movement between 30° to 60° of active flexion, and, as a consequence, improved function. The implants themselves can survive in situ for many years with a published overall survival rate of greater than 60% at 15 years or more. There are, however, a number of complications, these complications and their management are discussed further.