Denervation for Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Osteoarthritis

Purpose To assess the clinical and functional outcomes of proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint denervation using a volar approach in the treatment of PIP joint osteoarthritis. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 11 cases treated from June 2007 to June 2016. The patients were identified and outcomes collected through a single institution’s registry, collecting demographic data, comorbidities, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Disorders of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Results The ring finger was the most commonly treated. The VAS for pain improved from 7.8 to 1.4, and the DASH questionnaire improved from 43.6 to 8.7. The PIP joint active range of motion also improved from 52° to 79°. Two patients reported postoperative digital paresthesia that resolved spontaneously. There were no major complications. Conclusions Proximal interphalangeal joint denervation is a safe technique. It achieves good clinical results and, in case of failure, a more traditional and aggressive operation remains possible. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.