Internal fixation for small joint arthrodeses in the hand. The interphalangeal joints.

Abstract

Interphalangeal arthrodeses are performed frequently for disabling pain and deformity in the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints. Such arthrodeses are the gold standard for eliminating pain in arthritic joints of the fingers. Kirschner wire fixation is simple to perform but often leads to nonunion or delayed union. Fixation with tension band wires and Herbert and Accutrak screws is discussed in this article. The techniques are simple and straightforward, and they afford considerably more stability and a higher union rate than Kirschner wires alone.