Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint: description of a new technique and clinical follow-up at 2 years.

Introduction: Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) is an accepted operative procedure to treat osteoarthritis, instability and joint deformity. There is a wide spectrum of recommended operative techniques including cerclage wires, headless screws, bio-resorbable pins and lag screws. Lag screw fixation remains one of the most accepted methods of fixation; however, problems can occur in particular subsidence of the screw head leading to loss of compression and prominence of the screw head in the finger tip necessitating removal.