Arthrodesis of thumb interphalangeal and finger distal interphalangeal joints using the intramedullary X-Fuse® implant: Retrospective analysis of 38 cases

Interphalangeal arthrodesis using an intramedullary nitinol implant: a prospective study

“…A systematic review of 32 studies (1,125 digits) analyzed the three most commonly reported techniques (K-wire, headless compression screw, cerclage wire), finding insufficient evidence to support any particular technique. [2] Rates of union reported for generalized screw arthrodesis are ranging from 80% to 100% within three months postoperatively, [3] showing similar results to other commonly performed techniques such as bioabsorbable rod as intramedullary nail, [4] intramedullary K-wire fixation and interosseous wiring, [8] as well as plate and screw fixation. [5] We were able to demonstrate a 95% primary fusion rate within the same time interval using the nitinol (X-Fuse ® ) system, therefore showing effective comparable results.…”

“…Within our larger patient group, we were also able to demonstrate a lack of further complications, except for two patients with postoperative transient nail disorders and one patient with reversible paresthesia, requiring no further treatment. Ameline et al [8] observed a fusion rate of 94.8% (37/38) during evaluation of fusion position, finding a moderate alteration of less than 10° in arthrodesis position within the immediate postoperative interval without any clinical consequence. Our 95% rate of bony fusion (39/41) shows similar results, proving the nitinol implant to be a safe and effective technique for DIP and IP joint arthrodeses.…”

“…[11] There are only three other studies dealing with the X-Fuse ® implant system for DIP and IP arthrodeses of the hand. [6][7][8] Seitz and Marbella [6] published results of a two-year follow-up of 16 patients (21 DIP arthrodeses and 11 thumb arthrodeses), observing 31 out of 32 patients (97%) to show painless bony fusion within 10 weeks postoperatively. One patient demonstrated fibrous union with good stability and without pain, therefore no revision surgery was performed.…”

“…Studies reporting its outcome are scarce, not prospective and with rather small patient groups. [6][7][8] Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the nitinol (X-Fuse ® ) implant in arthrodesis of the distal IP and the thumb joints with respect to bone fusion and clinical efficiency.…”

Arthroscopic Interphalangeal Arthrodesis of the Thumb

“…3 Successful fusion generally improves the function and appearance of the thumb because its mobility has a less important role in the overall function of the thumb compared with the metacarpophalangeal joint. 2 This is commonly performed as an open procedure with a transverse or H-incision.…”