Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: A Long-Term Follow-Up

Background: Previously published research describes short-term outcomes after proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthroplasty; however, long-term outcomes are scarce. Therefore, the authors evaluated patient-reported outcomes and complications after a follow-up of at least 5 years following PIP joint arthroplasty. Methods: The authors used prospectively gathered data from patients undergoing PIP joint arthroplasty with silicone or surface replacement implants. Time points included preoperatively, 1 year postoperatively, and at least 5 years postoperatively. The authors were able to include 74 patients. Primarily, the authors focused on patient satisfaction with the treatment outcome, measured using a validated 5-point Likert scale. Secondary outcomes included the questions of whether patients would undergo the same surgery again, the assessment of factors associated with satisfaction or dissatisfaction, the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire score, and the number of reoperations. Results: The mean follow-up was 7 ± 1.2 years (range, 5 to 11 years). Patient satisfaction was excellent in 14 patients (19%), good in 17 patients (23%), reasonable in 18 patients (24%), moderate in 10 patients (14%), and poor in 15 patients (20%). Seventy-three percent of patients (n = 54) would undergo the same procedure again. The authors found no factors associated with satisfaction or dissatisfaction. All Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire scores improved significantly in the first year after surgery and did not deteriorate afterward. Sixteen fingers (16%) required a reoperation, of which 3 (4%) needed a prosthesis replacement. Conclusions: Patient satisfaction with treatment outcomes 7 years after PIP implant surgery ranges from moderate to good for many patients, with a notable proportion expressing dissatisfaction. Patient-reported outcomes improve primarily within the first year and remain stable at 5 years or more.