Biomechanical evaluation of 5 fixation devices for proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis.

Purpose: To determine in a cadaver model which, among 5 fixation methods for proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrodesis, has the greatest stiffness.

Methods: Thirty-five cadaver digits were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 fixation groups: oblique K-wire with coronal intraosseous wiring, tension-band wire (TBW), dorsal plate, intramedullary linked screw (IMS), and 90/90 wiring (90/90W). Testing was done by applying bending moments to the PIP joint in the sagittal and frontal planes.