Metacarpophalangeal Joint Arthroscopy: Indications and Techniques through a Clinical Series

 

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Abstract

Background Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint arthroscopy has been available for many years but sparingly used in typical orthopaedic and hand surgery daily practice. Difficult problems are solved with this technique in a practical and minimally invasive manner. This study describes our diverse experience and broad clinical applications of MCP arthroscopy as well as clinical results. It aims to highlight this technique as one of the tools for a fully trained hand surgeon, avoiding open management and its high complications rates.

Methods We present a retrospective clinical series of 79 patients treated with MCP arthroscopy with a mean age of 44 years old. Demographics, surgery, and clinical outcomes were collected in standardized clinical assessments.

Results We divided the sample into 20 articular metacarpal or proximal phalanx acute fracture with full functional fist and range of motion at 60 days after surgery. Regarding collateral tears, 12 were classified as acute and 47 as chronic. Two patients were reoperated for further gain range of motion.

Conclusions We present an up-to-date publication of our experience in MCP arthroscopy and its applications, with a low complication rate and excellent clinical results. We encourage hand surgeons to incorporate this technique in MCP joint challenging issues.

Level of Evidence IV

Publication History

Received: 24 April 2023

Accepted: 29 May 2023

Article published online:
03 July 2023

© 2023. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.
333 Seventh Avenue, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10001, USA

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