Proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty of the hand

Disability of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint often is secondary to traumatic and nontraumatic arthritis. Symptoms include pain, weakness, deformity, and stiffness that frequently affect adjacent fingers on the ulnar side of the hand. Although many patients respond to conservative treatment including activity modification, splinting, and medication, some patients require surgical management including arthroplasty. Despite shortcomings of current designs, arthroplasty of the PIP joint is an excellent procedure for pain relief and restoration of functional motion in patients who have good bone stock, minimal deformity, and preserved flexor and extensor function.