Long-term outcome of two types of endoprosthesis in the treatment of MP and PIP joints after posttraumatic disorders

We evaluate clinically and radiologically at three years the long term outcome of Swanson and Mathys endoprosthesis for PIP and MCP joints. There were 30 arthroplasties in 28 patients with posttraumatic MP and PIP joint destruction using 9 Swanson, 21 Mathys implants. The mean range of active motion compared with the opposite site was 59% for MCP joints (Swanson 56%, Mathys 62%) and 54% for PIP joints (Swanson 51%, Mathys 57%). The pinch strength was for MCP joints 72% (Swanson 70%, Mathys 74%) and for PIP joints 69% (Swanson 67%, Mathys 71%). The average grip strength varied from 70% for MP joints to 68% for PIP joints of the opposite no-operated finger. X-ray examination revealed sclerotic lines in 24 patients at stage 0, 3 at stage 1, 2 at stage 2 and 1at stage 4. Conclusion: both Swanson and Mathys implants improved finger movement and hand function with no statistical differences).