Percutaneous desmotomy of digits for stiffness from fixed edema.

A simple technique, not previously described, has been successful in achieving increased motion of contracted metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints of the hand. The procedure involves percutaneous sectioning of collateral ligaments followed by joint manipulation. Experience with 65 stiff joints treated by this minimally invasive technique followed by physical therapy revealed an average final gain of 28 degrees for metacarpophalangeal joints and 19 degrees for proximal interphalangeal joints. Mean follow-up was 13 months. This compares favorably to the more aggressive technique of open arthrolysis, thus offering a simple and effective treatment alternative.