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Biomechanical comparison of the proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis using a compression wire

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Abstract

Introduction/aim

Arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the finger is a common procedure for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The aim of this biomechanical study was to compare the primary stability of one, respectively, two compression wires to intraosseous wiring and tension band wiring for the arthrodesis.

Materials and methods

The stability of the arthrodesis was tested by applying flexion (n = 11) and extension (n = 10) force with 10° bending. Arthrodesis was achieved by one, respectively, two crossed compression wires and intraosseous wiring. In a control group (n = 11) tension band wiring was tested to 10° flexion and extension as well.

Results

Mean values for flexion bending for intraosseous wiring were 10.94 N, for one compression wire 12.82 N, for tension band wiring 17.95 N, and for two crossed compression wires 20.42 N. Mean values for extension bending were 9.71 N for intraosseous wiring, 13.63 N for one compression wire, 21.43 N for tension band wiring and 22.56 N for two crossed compression wires.

Conclusion

The primary stability of the compression wires was statistically significant superior to intraosseous wiring. In comparison to tension band wiring which showed an intermediate stability. The application of a compression wire could be considered for further clinical testing in the arthrodesis of interphalangeal joints.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Mrs. Alexandra Quooss for the biomechanical inputs.

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Correspondence to Michael Millrose.

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Conflict of interest

Alexander Zach: workshop instructor and lecture for Königsee Implantate GmbH (Am Sand 4/OT Aschau, 07426, Allendorf, Germany). On behalf of all other authors, the corresponding author states that all other named authors hereby declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Ethical approval

This study was approved (Reference number: BB 130/13) by an institutional review board.

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Millrose, M., Zach, A., Kim, S. et al. Biomechanical comparison of the proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis using a compression wire. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 139, 577–581 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-019-03119-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-019-03119-5

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