Patterns of osteoarthritis in long finger joints: an observational cadaveric study with potential biomechanical considerations.

Purpose: To explore the distribution and prevalence of osteoarthritis in metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints in long fingers in a cadaveric study, and to discuss potential biomechanical influences on these patterns.

Methods: This cadaveric study evaluated 144 metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints from 12 embalmed cadaver hands. A dorsal dissection approach was used to expose the joints, which were then marked with color-coded pegs for consistent orientation during imaging. High-resolution digital images of the distal articular surfaces were captured for analysis. The images were analyzed using custom software to quantify osteoarthritic areas, distinguishing between radial and ulnar aspects. Percentage affected joint surface was calculated using pixel-based measurements. Statistical analysis was used the Student t-test and ANOVA, with the significance threshold set at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence intervals RESULTS: The ulnar side of the proximal interphalangeal joint in digits 2 and 3 showed higher prevalence of osteoarthritis (59.31% ± 15.48%) than the radial side (40.68% ± 15.48%), p = 0.007; in contrast, for digits 4 and 5, prevalence was greater on the radial (54.3% ± 10.99%) than the ulnar side (45.7% ± 10.99%), p = 0.007. No significant differences were noted in osteoarthritis distribution between the radial and ulnar aspects of the metacarpophalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints.

Conclusions: This study identified distinct patterns of osteoarthritis distribution in long-finger joints, with greater prevalence in the proximal interphalangeal joints. Although there were differences between stable (digits 2 and 3) and mobile (digits 4 and 5) fingers, further research is necessary to conclusively determine the role of biomechanical forces in the development of osteoarthritis. These findings lay the groundwork for future studies of the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis in the hand, and could guide the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions.