Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty Using a Graft From the Capitate

Previous anatomical studies have shown that the capitate had a widened distal base. The distal articulation was mainly with the base of the third metacarpal and partially with the base of the second metacarpal. The articulation was slightly flattened with a convex and concave dorsal articular surface. The contour stimulates our imagination and creativity to use a portion of the articular surface for PIP arthroplasty.

Inclusion criteria

• an articular defect at the proximal aspect of the PIP joint;
• the defect larger than 5 mm × 5 mm in size based on intraoperative findings.

Exclusion criteria

• large defects involved double joint surfaces;
• the size of the defect less than 5 mm × 5 mm;
• mult-digital articular defects that all required osteoarticular grafting;
• associate with infection or other diseases that restrict to use the technique.