Current Concepts in Metacarpophalangeal Joint Arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

The expansion of the available types of implants for the metacarpophalangeal joint has significantly changed in the past few years. Specific indications remain for the use of the silicone implant replacements as well as specific instances in which the ball and socket type of metal and steel and pyrocarbon prostheses may be selected. This instructional course reviews the current biomechanical properties of these prostheses, surgical indications, and specific insertion technique unique to each device. The specific surgical tips to assess the ideal implantation of each prosthesis will be presented and the specific indications for them reviewed.

Silicone implants remain the procedure of choice in significant moderate to advanced rheumatoid disease reconstruction. The ball and socket type implants may be preferably used in osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and early rheumatoid disease with minimal clinical deformity. Information on the ideal surgical technique of implantation for each device will be presented and the individual postoperative therapy protocols reviewed.