Reconstruction of digital deformities in rheumatoid arthritis.

Digital deformities result from rheumatoid synovitis. These deformities are easier to treat in the early stage, when the deformity is passively correctable. Treatment options become limited as the disease progresses and the deformity becomes fixed. Surgical treatment of digital deformities is last in the priority of surgical procedures for the rheumatoid hand and wrist. It is therefore important to understand the patient's needs and expectations for improvement and attempt to match them with the surgical options that can predictably improve the patient's function. A close collaboration with the patient's rheumatologist is helpful in the overall management of patients.