Postoperative outcomes for extension contracture of PIP joint with chronic swan-neck deformity

―Nonrheumatic arthritis cases―

Abstract

Chronic hyperextension of proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint without rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is relatively rare.

We examined the pathophysiology and postoperative outcomes in three fingers of three patients, which were post-traumatic deformity. There were one female and two males, and the age at the surgery was average 43 years (38-50 years). Duration after injury was average 101 months (three-240 months). The affected site was the little finger in all cases. Post-operative follow-up duration was average 34 months (27-48 months). We assessed pre- and post-operative range of motion (ROM) and radiographic findings. In addition, improvement of swan-neck deformity, complications; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score; and return to work or sports were post-operatively evaluated. Open joint mobilization was performed in all cases, with radial collateral ligament reconstruction in two fingers and volar plate reconstruction in one case using the FDS radial half-slip. We obtained good post-operative outcomes including improvement of ROM and swan-neck deformity, no complication, favorable DASH score in all patients.