Midterm Clinical and Radiographic Follow-Up of Pyrolytic Carbon PIP Arthroplasty.

Purpose: The use of pyrolytic carbon arthroplasty (PCA) for the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is controversial. The goal of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic midterm outcomes of PIP joint PCA.

Methods: Patients were contacted after PIP PCA at 6.4 ± 1.9 years (mean ± SD). Evaluation included grip and pinch strength and digital range of motion (ROM). Radiographs and patient reported outcomes surveys were obtained.

Results: This study included 29 PIP joint PCA devices implanted in 23 hands among 19 patients. Seven devices underwent subsequent procedures. Three were removed and revised to silicone implants because of 2 dislocations and one implant migration. One underwent revision to a larger distal component. Three required soft tissue surgical revisions in which the implant was retained (one flexor digitorum superficialis tenodesis and 2 capsulectomies). At the time of latest follow-up, there was 86.2% original implant survivorship. The most recent radiographic review of the remaining 26 implants revealed 2 swan neck deformities and 2 implant migrations. Postoperative grip (38.4 ± 16.8 lb) and pinch (13.8 ± 2.7 lb) strength were 92% and 91%, respectively, of nonsurgical grip and pinch strength. Final mean ROM (range) for the metacarpophalangeal joint was 82.1° (60° to 100°) and for the PIP joint was 60.6° (20° to 110°). Mean outcome scores were: visual analog scale, 1.6 (± 2.4), Michigan Hand Questionnaire, 71.6 (± 17.6), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, 24.7 (± 14.5).

Conclusions: Midterm follow-up (mean, 6.4 years) for 29 PCA implants in 19 patients revealed a surgical revision rate of 24.1%. Of the 29 implants, 13.8% were removed at a mean of 4.6 years (range, 1.3-7.9 years). Strength, ROM, and pain relief were all satisfactory.

Type Of Study/level Of Evidence: Prognostic IV.