Narrow Results

We describe 4 cases of irreducible volar rotatory subluxation of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the finger that required open reduction. All of the patients had radiographically proven (in lateral-view radiographs) volar rotatory subluxation of the PIP joint, without fracture. The causes of irreducibility were interposition of the lateral band about the condyle of the middle phalanx in 2 cases, interposition of the collateral ligament in 1 case, and scarring of the injured central slip in 1 case. Rupture of the collateral ligament of one side was found in all cases. Acceptable results were provided with all cases after restoration of the collateral ligaments and the damaged parts. Accurate early diagnosis by careful physical examination and obtaining true lateral radiographs of the PIP joint is important.

Background: Total wrist replacement (TWR) is rarely done in the Asia–Pacific region. The aim of this study is to report the surgical outcomes and experience of TWR in patients with advanced arthritis.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of all TWR patients in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, which is a university tertiary centre, from January 2004 to March 2023. Recorded demographic parameters include gender, age upon surgery, pathology, types of implants and follow-up period. The surgical outcome parameters include range of motion, grip strength, wrist function assessment, radiological and clinical complications and any related secondary operations. Postoperative X-ray and clinical notes were reviewed. All wrist function assessments were performed by specialised occupational therapists according to protocol.

Results: The study included a total of 12 wrists of 10 patients, all Chinese–Asian, with a mean age of 61.4 years at surgery. Larsen grade V arthritis constituted 50% and grade IV 16.7% of the patients, amongst which 33% had volar subluxation. The mean follow-up period was 97.4 months (21–205 months). The mean grip strength was 64.2% of the unaffected side. The mean postoperative Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 41.12% and patient-rated wrist/hand evaluation (PRWE) score 18.0. Complication incidence was 16.67% for loosening, 8.3% for metallosis and 8.3% for infection. One patient required conversion to total wrist arthrodesis due to metallosis. No patient suffered from dislocation, periprosthetic fracture and infection.

Conclusions: TWR is an effective and safe alternative to total wrist arthrodesis with comparable outcomes. Our series outcomes are satisfactory and in line with literature. With meticulous soft tissue release and balancing, volar subluxation can also be corrected and may not be a contraindication.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic)