Steinmann pin arthrodesis for salvage of failed small joint arthroplasty.

Proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty has been performed since the 1960s, with good short-term and medium-term results. However, despite improvements in pain, there is a considerable failure rate. Often, there is a delicate soft tissue envelope and substantial bone loss after removal of these prostheses, making salvage procedures difficult. We present an intramedullary technique of proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis following failed implant arthroplasty. This technique has provided reliable results in a small cohort of patients.