Chronic palmar dislocation of proximal interphalangeal joints.

Seven patients with chronic palmar dislocations of proximal interphalangeal joints are described. The duration of the dislocation ranged from 4 weeks to 19 months. Satisfactory mobility was restored in each patient after operative reduction and reconstruction of the extensor mechanism. Motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint averaged 57.1 degrees and 29.3 degrees at the distal interphalangeal joint. This method of treatment is preferable to an arthrodesis in selected patients.