[DIGITOS-prosthesis for the proximal interphalangeal joint--long-term results].

Most important methods for the surgical treatment of painful arthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint are the joint fusion or the implantation of a prosthesis. There are a lot of different models for joint replacement. Sixteen patients received 19 middle joint replacements performed with the DIGITOS-prosthesis between 1996 and 1999. Over a period of seven years, 14 patients with 17 prostheses have been observed prospectively. In the 7-year follow-up, a minimal radiolucent line at the bone-cement junction and huge periarticular osteophytes could be found in every case. No cortical penetration, luxation, or implant fractures were recorded. The preoperative median range of motion was 50 degrees. Postoperatively, there was an improvement to 60 degrees. The range of motion decreased to 50 degrees after one year and to as little as 30 degrees after seven years. Preoperatively, eleven patients had pain with activity and three had pain without activity. During the whole follow-up period there were only two patients who had pain at work. All patients were satisfied with the results of the operation throughout the control period and would choose the same treatment again.