Medium- and long-term outcomes for hand and wrist pyrocarbon implants.

The article reviews the techniques and surgical outcomes of arthroplasties of the metacarpophalangeal, carpometacarpal and the wrist joints. In my patients, interposition pyrocarbon implants quickly achieve functional recovery and do not deteriorate time. Bony and articular tolerances are remarkable. These implants are a valid alternative to conventional arthroplasties, such as trapeziectomies, silicone implants and total joint replacements. Because of the implant's small size, the surgery can be done through minimally invasive approaches especially for young and active patients. A technical key is to properly manage the bone surfaces of the joint and the peri-articular soft tissues to avoid early implant instability.