Finger arthrography.

The use of arthrography in patients with chronic finger complaints is discussed. Magnification arthrography was performed to assist the clinical evaluation of 15 patients with pain in the metacarpal-phalangeal or proximal interphalangeal joints. Conditions detected include collateral ligament laxity, extravasation around the volar plate, and fibrous ankylosis. Demonstration of normal articular cartilage was important for clinical management in some patients. Direct radiographic magnification was considered useful for best visualization, but tomography was not helpful.