Osteochondral Autograft From the Hamate for Treating Partial Defect of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint.

PURPOSE: The management of a proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint fracture dislocation becomes more challenging when the joint surface is damaged because of severe comminution or inadequate treatment in the acute phase. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of an osteochondral autograft for the reconstruction of the joint surface in patients with a partial PIP joint defect.

METHODS

Twelve patients underwent osteochondral autograft surgery from May 2007 to July 2018. The average age at the time of surgery was 38 years (range, 21-67 years), and there were 10 men and 2 women. Plain radiographs and computed tomography scans showed a partial middle phalangeal base defect in all the cases. The surgeries were performed 2 weeks to 20 months after the fracture or a previous surgery. Partial hamate grafts were harvested to reconstruct volar lip (n = 7), middle portion (n = 2), and dorsal lip (n = 3) defects of the middle phalangeal base. Bone healing, postoperative range of motion, instability, and pain were evaluated. The average follow-up duration was 27.8 months (range, 12-53 months).

RESULTS

Radiographic graft union was observed in all the patients 6-8 weeks after the surgery. The deformity was corrected in 11 patients. The active range of motion of the involved PIP joint was improved from 28.3° (range, 0°-60°) to 75.0° (range, 25°-95°). Complications were observed during follow-up, including degenerative arthritis (n = 2), instability (n = 3), and stiffness (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

Various types of partial joint defects of the middle phalangeal base following a PIP fracture dislocation can be reconstructed using an osteochondral autograft from the hamate. The functional recovery is generally acceptable, with a well-restored joint architecture.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.