Results of proximal interphalangeal joint release for flexion contractures: Midlateral versus palmar incision

Forty-two patients (45 fingers) were retrospectively reviewed after operati ve release of flexion contractures of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) jo int. The release was accomplished through a palmar incision in 19 fingers, usually followed by skin coverage using a lateral transposition flap. A mid lateral incision was used in 26 fingers. The 2 groups were comparably match ed with respect to degree of contracture and demographic characteristics. A ctive range of motion (ROM) was measured before and after surgery. In the p almar incision group, preoperative median PIP joint ROM was 60 degrees to 9 0 degrees (extension/flexion) and 30 degrees to 90 degrees at the 3-year fo llow-up examination. In the midlateral incision group, preoperative median PIP joint ROM was 50 degrees to 90 degrees (extension/flexion) and 0 degree s to 90 degrees at the 1.5-year follow-up examination. The improvement in R OM was significantly better in the midlateral incision group than in the pa lmar incision group. Copyright (C) 1999 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.