Abstract
Burr et al. (2002) reported the results of a 19-month follow-up study on a static splinting regimen as an alternative to dynamic extension splinting after metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint arthroplasty. However, the long-term results of static splinting therapy have not been reported. Therefore, we conducted a 3-year follow-up study on the use of alternating static splinting in extension and flexion after MCP joint arthroplasty. Active flexion and extension of the MCP joints and grip strength were evaluated before surgery and at 12 weeks and 3 years after surgery. The range of motion (ROM) of the MCP joints and grip strength improved at 12 weeks and 3 years postoperatively. The efficacy of dynamic extension splinting after MCP joint arthroplasty indicated no change in the ROM and grip strength. The findings in this case indicate the positive long-term results of a static splinting regimen.
