Distal interphalangeal joint silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the hand.

Distal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty is effective in alleviating the pain of degenerative arthritis while preserving motion and stability. This procedure is undertaken as an alternative to arthrodesis of this joint. This is a review of this procedure done in 38 digits. The average age of the patients at the time of operation was 58.3 years. The implants have been in place for a mean period of 10 years. Less than 10% of the implants have had to be removed. The outcome measures of range of motion indicate that the distal interphalangeal joint moves 33 degrees. Compared with arthrodesis, silicone interpositional arthroplasty offers the advantage of retained motion while preserving stability.