title: Pyrocarbon proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: outcomes of a cohort study.
abstract: Pyrocarbon arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint is a relatively new concept. Early studies have been encouraging, reporting improved pain and function, but a largely unchanged arc of motion. Subsidence of the implant is common, but how it relates to outcome has not been analyzed. This study was performed to review the results of 57 pyrocarbon proximal interphalangeal implanted joints. Results showed a statistically significant increase in the arc of motion, excellent pain relief, and improved function. Subsidence was observed on radiographs in 40% of joints, but no correlation was found compared with arc of motion or function. The incidence of complications is fairly high and usually related to the peri-articular soft tissues, but they are usually minor and do not require further treatment. From this review, we can recommend the use of this implant for treatment of arthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint.
authors.affiliation: Martin Singer Hand Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa. duncan.mcguire@gmail.com
authors.forename: D T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: McGuire
authors.forename: C D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: White
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Carter
authors.forename: M W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Solomons
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D019643:Arthroplasty, Replacement / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000534:rehabilitation; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D002244:Carbon; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D005384:Finger Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012086:Reoperation; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; C009139:pyrolytic carbon; D002244:Carbon