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Education · hand

DIPJ arthritis Info Evidence

Reviewed by Dr Kieran Hirpara, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon Last reviewed

Also on YouTube.

Video transcript

It is common to feel a sharp ache right at the tip of your finger, at the joint nearest to your fingernail. The stiffness is usually worst when you first wake up, but it tends to ease as you move your hand around. This wear and tear happens at the distal interphalangeal joint, which is simply the small hinge at the very end of your finger. Over time, the bones inside may rub together, making everyday tasks feel increasingly difficult. You might notice that the joint becomes swollen or occasionally locks during simple movements. Gripping objects or performing fine tasks can feel surprisingly tricky when the area is inflamed. Some individuals describe a strange sensation where the joint feels unstable or floats, even if there is little visible change. It is important to remember that medical scans do not always match how much pain you actually feel. Your care team will focus on your specific symptoms rather than relying solely on imaging results. Inside the joint, a smooth coating normally acts like a cushion to let the bones glide past each other. When wear and tear arthritis develops, this protective layer gradually wears away. The bones then begin to rub directly against one another, which causes the grinding and stiffness you experience. The joint may slowly pull out of place, so the tip of the finger looks bent to the side. Initial management usually involves working with a hand therapist and using a splint to reduce pain. Keeping the joint still does reduce overall grip strength, with the effect becoming more noticeable from the index finger down to the little finger. These conservative methods should be given time to work before considering further steps. If symptoms persist, your surgeon may discuss medical options or injections to ease pain. When conservative care reaches its limit, surgery can be considered to relieve pain, which usually improves your function. You should book an appointment with your general practitioner if persistent pain does not improve with rest or if the finger feels weak. Ask for a specialist review when the joint hurts, or begins to interfere with your sleep or daily work.

What you're feeling

You may notice stiffness and pain in the very last joint of your finger. This is the distal interphalangeal joint, or DIPJ. The discomfort often feels like a deep ache. It can make simple movements difficult. You might find it hard to bend the tip of your finger fully. This is called a flexion contracture. Over time, the joint may change shape. It can develop a curve known as a swan neck deformity.

Pain often flares up after you use your hand. Tasks that require pinching or gripping become tiring. You might struggle to reach behind your back to fasten a bra. Tucking in a shirt can feel awkward or painful. Some people feel stiffness when they first wake up. This usually eases as you move your hand. However, the pain can return after prolonged activity.

In some cases, the joint may shift out of place. This is called subluxation. It happens when the joint surface is damaged. You might see or feel a change in the finger’s alignment. The skin over the joint can become tender. You may notice swelling that comes and goes. Night pain is less common but can occur if the joint is inflamed.

Your surgeon will examine your hand to understand these symptoms. They will check how much the joint moves. They may look for signs of wear-and-tear arthritis. This is also called osteoarthritis. It involves changes in the cartilage and bone. Your surgeon will explain what these findings mean for you. They will discuss options to help reduce your pain and improve function.

What's actually happening

Your fingertip joint is a small hinge that lets you pinch and grip. Inside, two bone ends are covered in smooth cartilage. This cartilage acts like a shock absorber, allowing the bones to glide past each other without friction. Over time, this coating can wear away due to age, injury, or repetitive stress. When it thins out, the bones begin to rub directly against one another. This causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. You may notice the joint feels gritty or locks up when you try to move it.

The joint is held together by a tough sleeve called the capsule and supported by ligaments. If the joint surface is damaged significantly, the bones can shift out of place. This is called subluxation. When this happens, the joint loses its normal shape and stability. You might see a visible bump or deformity on your fingertip. The misalignment puts extra strain on the surrounding tissues, making everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or typing difficult.

Tendons also play a key role in how your finger moves. These are like strong ropes that pull your finger into a bend. If a tendon is injured or the joint is unstable, the balance of forces changes. This can lead to abnormal bending patterns, such as a swan-neck deformity, where the joint bends too far. Understanding these mechanical changes helps explain why simple rest often isn't enough. The structural wear and tear requires targeted treatment to restore function and relieve pain.

What we can do about it

The approach we take at our clinic reflects how Dr Kieran Hirpara, an upper-limb surgeon at Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, manages this condition. We begin with conservative care to manage pain and maintain function. Splinting the distal interphalangeal joint reduces pain and improves extension without causing stiffness or restricting your range of motion. We also recommend activity changes and hand therapy to keep the joint moving. Please note that immobilizing this joint reduces overall grip strength, with the effect becoming more pronounced from the index to the little fingers. We usually try non-operative care for degenerative problems and consider surgery only if this does not provide enough improvement.

If simple measures are not enough, we discuss medical management options. You may take pain medication or anti-inflammatories to control discomfort. Injections can also help. Cortisone injections reduce inflammation to provide temporary relief. Hyaluronic acid injections aim to lubricate the joint, while platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections use your own blood components to support healing. The duration of relief varies by individual and injection type. For patients with joint contractures, collagenase injections may be an option, though we carefully weigh the risk of recurrence. Our clinic assessment, including history, examination, and imaging where needed, helps us determine which option suits your specific situation.

Surgery is considered when conservative care has reached its limit and pain significantly affects your daily life. We offer several surgical paths depending on your joint’s condition. For severe pain in both the middle and end joints of the same finger, we may treat both simultaneously. If you wish to preserve motion, we might perform a cheilectomy to remove bone spurs or use denervation to reduce pain signals. For those who prefer a stable, pain-free joint, fusion (arthrodesis) is a common choice. We also offer silicone interpositional arthroplasty as a motion-preserving alternative, which achieves excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees with a low overall complication rate of 5%. We present these options as a shared decision, ensuring you understand the benefits and trade-offs of each path.

What to expect

Your outlook depends on how your arthritis behaves and which treatment path you choose. Without treatment, the condition often follows a natural degenerative course. If you have had a mallet finger fracture, wear-and-tear arthritis may develop in the joint. You might notice a decrease in how far you can bend your finger. However, this loss of movement usually does not significantly change your daily function or satisfaction with the hand.

If the arthritis is severe and painful, it tends to persist and can worsen over time. In some cases, the joint may develop a "swan neck" deformity, where the finger bends in an unusual way. This progression is driven by increasing stiffness and contracture in the joint. If both the middle and end joints of the same finger are severely painful, your surgeon may recommend addressing both at the same time to restore balance and function.

With treatment, you can expect significant pain relief. If you choose a fusion procedure, the goal is to eliminate pain by joining the bones together. This is often very effective. If you prefer to keep some movement, alternatives like silicone joint replacement or denervation with bone shaving are available. Silicone replacement, for example, typically provides excellent pain relief and allows for a range of movement of 30–40 degrees. The overall complication rate for this specific procedure is low, at 5%.

Recovery feels different depending on the procedure. Splinting the joint can reduce pain and improve extension without causing stiffness or non-compliance. For those undergoing fusion, results are generally favorable, with reliable bone union and high patient satisfaction. Even if a previous silicone implant fails, customized bone grafting can address bone loss and achieve reliable union. Your surgeon will help you weigh these options based on your specific needs, ensuring you understand the realistic benefits and limitations of each path.

When to see someone

Ask for a specialist review if you have persistent pain in your fingertip joint that does not improve with rest. Seek care if you notice weakness, instability, or a feeling of locking or giving way. These symptoms may indicate a worsening deformity, such as a swan neck deformity, or significant joint damage. Sudden worsening of symptoms is also a reason to seek help. Early assessment helps your surgeon understand the progression of wear-and-tear arthritis or trauma-related changes. This allows for timely management to maintain hand function and comfort. Do not ignore signs that your daily activities are becoming difficult due to joint issues.

Reviewed by AI synthesis (v2) — pending human review · 18 May 2026.

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Evidence & references

Overview

  • Percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous compared with open fusion techniques in select patients [1].
  • Swan neck deformity progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Simultaneous surgical intervention is recommended for severe painful osteoarthritis of both the PIP and DIP joints of the same digit [3].
  • Denervation with cheilectomy presents a motion-preserving alternative to arthrodesis for symptomatic DIP joint osteoarthritis [4].
  • Lateral approach and plate fixation for DIP joint arthrodesis yields results equivalent to traditional methods but with fewer major complications [5].
  • The combination of DIP arthrodesis and PIP Swanson arthroplasty results in favorable outcomes regarding simultaneous bony union and flexibility [7].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint is an acceptable alternative to arthrodesis, achieving excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees [8].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint has a low overall complication rate of 5% [8].
  • The smile incision and reverse shotgun approach is a good surgical option for DIPJ arthrodesis when more volar part joint preparation and more volar implant insertion sites are necessary [9].
  • The nonaxial multiple small screws (NMSS) technique is a feasible option for DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis, especially when a small finger is indicated and a significant flexion angle is required [11].
  • Customized structural bone grafting addresses bone stock loss and medullary absence in failed DIPJ silicone arthroplasty, achieving reliable union rates and high patient satisfaction [13].
  • There is no difference in biomechanical performance between K-wires and compression screws for DIPJ arthrodesis [20].
  • Implant selection for DIPJ fusion should consider factors such as cost and complication profiles given the lack of difference in biomechanical performance between K-wires and compression screws [20].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured [6].
  • Understanding of DIP joint morphology may lend insight into the biomechanics and disease progression within the DIP joints [10].
  • A substantial number of distal phalanges are too small to accommodate commonly available headless compression screws, particularly in females and the small finger [31].
  • Irreducibility was more commonly seen in dorsal than in volar dislocations of the DIP joint [33].
  • Volar dislocations of the DIP joint carried a higher risk of instability immediately after reduction compared to dorsal dislocations [33].
  • Biomechanically, dynamic tenodesis for the DIP joint using the remaining FDP tendon results in a flexion angle greater than 30 degrees [23].
  • In a cadaveric model, tenodesis successfully restored coordinated interphalangeal joint flexion after a simulated zone I FDP laceration with improvements in DIP joint flexion and composite finger flexion [35].
  • Lateral blocking with incremental joint angles allows a safer application of force for the healing tendon during palmar and lateral blocking exercises [26].

Classification

  • Swan neck deformity in the DIP joint progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis following a mallet finger fracture follows a similar course to the natural degenerative process in the DIP joint [12].
  • Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the DIP joint after mallet finger fractures is accompanied by a decrease in range of motion, though this does not clinically affect patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) [12].
  • The interrater reliability of the Kellgren & Lawrence classification system for post-traumatic osteoarthritis in the DIP joint after mallet finger fractures is considerably lower than initially assumed [34].
  • The interrater reliability of the OARSI classification system for post-traumatic osteoarthritis in the DIP joint after mallet finger fractures is considerably lower than initially assumed [34].
  • Current concepts regarding DIP joint osteoarthritis highlight the roles of cartilage, subchondral bone, and soft tissue structures in etiology, pathogenesis, and evaluation [19].
  • Morphological understanding of DIP joint curvatures may provide insight into the biomechanics and disease progression within the DIP joints [10].
  • Examination of type I and type II nerve endings provides new information on the sensory systems of the DIP joints and surrounding structures [32].
  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured [6].

Clinical Presentation

  • Swan neck deformity in the DIPJ progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured [6].
  • Floating DIP joint injuries can be misdiagnosed initially due to minimal deformity [17].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis following a mallet finger fracture is similar to the natural degenerative process in the DIP joint [12].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture is accompanied by a decrease in range of motion of the DIP joint [12].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture does not clinically affect patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) [12].
  • Primary synovial chondromatosis of the DIPJ is an extremely rare entity that requires accurate diagnosis to distinguish from other arthropathies [27].
  • Understanding the morphology of DIPJ curvatures may lend insight into the biomechanics and disease progression within the DIP joints [10].
  • Osteoarthritis of the DIPJ involves roles of cartilage, subchondral bone, and soft tissue structures in its etiology, pathogenesis, and evaluation [19].

Investigations

  • Percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous compared with open fusion techniques in select patients [1].
  • Swan neck deformity progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Simultaneous surgical intervention is recommended for severe painful osteoarthritis of both the PIP and DIP joints of the same digit [3].
  • Denervation with cheilectomy presents a motion-preserving alternative to arthrodesis for symptomatic DIP joint osteoarthritis [4].
  • Lateral approach and plate fixation for DIP joint arthrodesis yields results equivalent to traditional methods with fewer major complications [5].
  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured [6].
  • The combination of DIP arthrodesis and PIP Swanson arthroplasty results in favorable outcomes regarding simultaneous bony union and flexibility [7].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint is an acceptable alternative to arthrodesis, achieving excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees with a low overall complication rate of 5% [8].
  • The smile incision and reverse shotgun approach is a good surgical option for DIPJ arthrodesis when more volar part joint preparation and more volar implant insertion sites are necessary [9].
  • Understanding the morphology of DIP joints may lend insight into the biomechanics and disease progression within the DIP joints [10].
  • The nonaxial multiple small screws (NMSS) technique is a feasible option for DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis, especially when a small finger is indicated and a significant flexion angle is required [11].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture is similar to the natural degenerative process in the DIP joint and is accompanied by a decrease in range of motion of the DIP joint [12].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture does not clinically affect patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) [12].
  • Customized structural bone grafting addresses bone stock loss and medullary absence in failed DIPJ silicone arthroplasty, achieving reliable union rates and high patient satisfaction [13].
  • Immobilization of the distal interphalangeal joint of any finger reduces the overall grip strength of the hand [16].
  • The reduction in grip strength from DIP joint immobilization becomes progressively more pronounced from the index to the little fingers [16].
  • Floating DIP joint injuries can be misdiagnosed initially due to minimal deformity [17].
  • Open reduction and internal fixation is a viable treatment option for chronic floating DIP joint injuries, though osteoarthritis may develop [17].
  • Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint often leads to complications [18].
  • Current concepts regarding DIP joint osteoarthritis examine the etiology, pathogenesis, and evaluation of the condition, highlighting the roles of cartilage, subchondral bone, and soft tissue structures [19].
  • A size mismatch existed between the anatomic dimensions of the DIP joint and commercially available headless compression screws [21].
  • A distinct collagen septum exists between the extensor tendon and skin at the DIP joint [38].

Treatment

  • Percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous compared with open fusion techniques in select patients [1].
  • Simultaneous surgical intervention is recommended for severe painful osteoarthritis of both the PIP and DIP joints of the same digit [3].
  • Denervation with cheilectomy presents a motion-preserving alternative to arthrodesis for symptomatic DIP joint osteoarthritis [4].
  • Lateral approach and plate fixation for DIP joint arthrodesis yields results equivalent to traditional methods with fewer major complications [5].
  • Simultaneous anterograde screw arthrodesis of the DIP joint and silastic PIP joint replacement results in favorable outcomes regarding bony union and flexibility [7].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint is an acceptable alternative to arthrodesis, achieving excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees [8].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint has a low overall complication rate of 5% [8].
  • The smile incision and reverse shotgun approach is a good surgical option for DIPJ arthrodesis when more volar part joint preparation and more volar implant insertion sites are necessary [9].
  • The nonaxial multiple small screws (NMSS) technique is a feasible option for DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis, especially when a small finger is indicated and a significant flexion angle is required [11].
  • Customized structural bone grafting addresses bone stock loss and medullary absence in failed DIPJ silicone arthroplasty, achieving reliable union rates and high patient satisfaction [13].
  • Diabetes and surgeon experience are factors increasing the risk of postoperative complications in DIP/thumb IP joint arthrodeses [14].
  • Splinting of the DIP joint reduces pain and improves extension at the joint without causing non-compliance, increased stiffness, or restriction of range of motion [15].
  • Open reduction and internal fixation is a viable treatment option for chronic floating DIP joint injuries, though osteoarthritis may develop [17].
  • Injection with collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is an option for the treatment of DIP joint contractures in Dupuytren disease, though the potential risk for recurrence should be carefully weighed [36].
  • Open DIP joint cheilectomy is a safe and effective alternative to DIP joint arthrodesis in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis who wish to preserve joint motion [37].

Complications

  • Swan neck deformity in the DIPJ progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured, even without preexisting arthritic deformity [6].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis following a mallet finger fracture follows a natural degenerative process and is accompanied by a decrease in DIPJ range of motion [12].
  • Diabetes is identified as a factor increasing the risk of postoperative complications in DIP and thumb IP joint arthrodeses [14].
  • Surgeon experience is identified as a factor increasing the risk of postoperative complications in DIP and thumb IP joint arthrodeses [14].
  • Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint often leads to complications [18].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint has a low overall complication rate of 5% [8].
  • Failed Swanson's arthroplasty of the DIPJ can result in bone stock loss and medullary absence [13].

Recovery

  • Percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous compared with open fusion techniques in select patients [1].
  • Swan neck deformity progresses significantly over time due to increasing DIPJ flexion contracture [2].
  • Simultaneous surgical intervention is recommended for severe painful osteoarthritis of both the PIP and DIP joints of the same digit [3].
  • Denervation with cheilectomy presents a motion-preserving alternative to arthrodesis for symptomatic DIP joint osteoarthritis [4].
  • Lateral approach and plate fixation for DIP joint arthrodesis yields results equivalent to traditional methods but with fewer major complications [5].
  • Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured [6].
  • The combination of DIP arthrodesis and PIP Swanson arthroplasty results in favorable outcomes regarding simultaneous bony union and flexibility [7].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint is an acceptable alternative to arthrodesis, achieving excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees [8].
  • Silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint has a low overall complication rate of 5% [8].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture is similar to the natural degenerative process in the DIP joint [12].
  • Radiological osteoarthritis after a mallet finger fracture is accompanied by a decrease in range of motion of the DIP joint [12].
  • The decrease in range of motion of the DIP joint following radiological osteoarthritis from a mallet finger fracture does not clinically affect PROMs [12].
  • Customized structural bone grafting addresses bone stock loss and medullary absence in failed DIPJ silicone arthroplasty, achieving reliable union rates and high patient satisfaction [13].
  • Diabetes is a factor increasing the risk of postoperative complications in DIP and thumb IP joint arthrodeses [14].
  • Surgeon experience is a factor increasing the risk of postoperative complications in DIP and thumb IP joint arthrodeses [14].
  • Splinting of the DIP joint reduces pain and improves extension at the joint [15].
  • Splinting of the DIP joint does not give rise to non-compliance, increased stiffness, or restriction of range of motion [15].

Key Evidence

  • [L4] In select patients, this percutaneous DIP joint arthrodesis is advantageous in comparison with open fusion techniques. [1] (10.1007/s11552-010-9265-9)
  • [L5] The swan neck deformity in this individual progressed significantly with time because of increasing DIPJ flexion contracture. [2] (10.1016/j.jht.2009.11.005)
  • [L3] The authors recommend simultaneous surgical intervention in case of severe painful OA of the PIP and DIP joints of the same digit. [3] (10.1177/17531934231191255)
  • [L4] It presents a compelling motion-preserving alternative to arthrodesis for symptomatic DIP joint osteoarthritis. [4] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2026.01.027)
  • [L4] The results obtained in this small series are equivalent to the traditional methods of DIP joint arthrodesis but with fewer major complications. [5] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.004)
  • [L5] Palmar subluxation of a DIP joint without preexisting arthritic deformity is expected when more than one half of the dorsal articular surface is injured. [6] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.006)
  • [L4] The combination of DIP arthrodesis and PIP Swanson arthroplasty resulted in a favourable outcome in terms of simultaneous bony union and flexibility. [7] (10.1177/17531934231215790)
  • [L4] The study confirms that silicone interpositional arthroplasty of the DIP joint is an acceptable alternative to arthrodesis, achieving excellent pain relief and a range of movement of 30–40 degrees with a low overall complication rate of 5%. [8] (10.1177/1753193411422679)
  • [L4] This technique may be a good surgical option for DIPJ arthrodesis when more volar part joint preparation and more volar implant insertion sites are necessary. [9] (10.1186/s12891-024-08016-6)
  • [L5] Our understanding of morphology may lend insight into the biomechanics and disease progression within the DIP joints. [10] (10.1007/s11552-014-9605-2)
  • [L4] Thus, the NMSS technique could be used as a feasible option in DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis, especially when a small finger is indicated and a significant flexion angle is required. [11] (10.1186/s12891-022-05473-9)
  • [L4] Radiological OA after an MFF is similar to the natural degenerative process in the DIP joint and is accompanied by a decrease in range of motion of the DIP joint, which does not clinically affect PROMs. [12] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.03.027)
  • [L4] A customized structural bone graft using the described technique addresses issues of bone stock loss and medullary absence in failed DIPJ silicone arthroplasty, achieving reliable union rates and high patient satisfaction. [13] (10.1177/17531934231151217)
  • [L3] Diabetes and surgeon experience were identified as factors increasing the risk of postoperative complications in these DIP/thumb IP joint arthrodeses. [14] (10.1186/s12891-024-07361-w)
  • [L2] It does not give rise to non-compliance, increased stiffness or restriction of range of motion. [15] (10.1016/j.jht.2013.08.004)
  • [L4] Immobilization of the distal interphalangeal joint of any finger reduces the overall grip strength of the hand, with the effect becoming progressively more pronounced from the index to the little fingers. [16] (10.1177/1753193418765068)
  • [Case_report] Floating DIP joint injuries can be misdiagnosed initially due to minimal deformity; open reduction and internal fixation is a viable treatment option for chronic cases, though osteoarthritis may develop. [17] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.05.025)
  • [L3] Arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint often leads to complications. [18] (10.1177/17531934221111641)
  • [L5] This current concepts article examines the recent knowledge base regarding the etiology, pathogenesis, and evaluation of osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint, highlighting the roles of cartilage, subchondral bone, and soft tissue structures. [19] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.09.003)
  • [L5] Given the lack of difference in biomechanical performance between K-wires and compression screws, consideration should be given to other factors such as cost and complication profiles when choosing an implant for DIPJ fusion. [20] (10.1177/1558944715627211)
  • [L4] A size mismatch existed between the anatomic dimensions of the DIP joint and commercially available headless compression screws. [21] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.02.007)
  • [L5] Biomechanically, dynamic tenodesis for the DIP joint using the remaining FDP tendon is a valuable procedure because it results in a flexion angle greater than 30 degrees. [23] (10.1016/j.jhsg.2020.08.007)
  • [L5] This study supports the concept that lateral blocking with incremental joint angles allows a safer application of force for the healing tendon. [26] (10.1016/j.jht.2020.07.004)
  • [Case_report] Primary synovial chondromatosis of the distal interphalangeal joint is an extremely rare entity that requires accurate diagnosis to distinguish from other arthropathies. [27] (10.1177/15589447211049520)
  • [L4] A substantial number of distal phalanges are too small to accommodate commonly available headless compression screws, particularly in females and the small finger. [31] (10.1007/s11552-014-9679-x)
  • [L5] Our examination of the distribution of type I and type II nerve endings provides new information on the sensory systems of the DIP joints and surrounding structures. [32] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.11.050)
  • [L4] Irreducibility was more commonly seen in dorsal than in volar dislocations, while volar dislocations carried a higher risk of instability immediately after reduction. [33] (10.1177/1753193415616957)
  • [L4] The interrater reliability of the Kellgren & Lawrence and OARSI classification systems for post-traumatic osteoarthritis in the distal interphalangeal joint after mallet finger fractures is considerably lower than initially assumed. [34] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2024.03.012)
  • [L5] In this cadaveric model, this tenodesis successfully restored coordinated interphalangeal joint flexion after a simulated zone I FDP laceration with improvements in distal interphalangeal joint flexion and composite finger flexion. [35] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.10.009)
  • [L4] Injection with CCH is an option for the treatment of DIP joint contractures in Dupuytren disease, though the potential risk for recurrence should be carefully weighed prior to its use. [36] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.07.004)
  • [L4] Open DIP joint cheilectomy is a safe and effective alternative to DIP joint arthrodesis in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis who wish to preserve joint motion. [37] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2017.07.006)
  • [L5] We confirmed the existence of a distinct collagen septum between the extensor tendon and skin at the DIP joint using MRI and histology. [38] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.11.030)

References

[1] Treatment of Symptomatic Distal Interphalangeal Joint Arthritis with Percutaneous Arthrodesis: A Novel Technique in Select Patients. HAND. 2010. DOI: 10.1007/s11552-010-9265-9 [2] Swan Neck Deformity after Distal Interphalangeal Joint Flexion Contractures: A Biomechanical Analysis. Journal of Hand Therapy. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2009.11.005 [3] Does distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis affect proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty outcomes in the same finger?. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231191255 [4] Denervation with Cheilectomy of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint: Technique and Medium-Term Results. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2026.01.027 [5] Alternative to the Distal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis: Lateral Approach and Plate Fixation. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.004 [6] A Biomechanical Study of Distal Interphalangeal Joint Subluxation After Mallet Fracture Injury. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.09.006 [7] Simultaneous anterograde screw arthrodesis of distal interphalangeal joint and silastic proximal interphalangeal joint replacement for osteoarthritis. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231215790 [8] Joint replacement in 131 painful osteoarthritic and post-traumatic distal interphalangeal joints. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2011. DOI: 10.1177/1753193411422679 [9] Smile incision and reverse shotgun approach in distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2024. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-08016-6 [10] Curvatures of the DIP Joints of the Hand. HAND. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11552-014-9605-2 [11] Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis with nonaxial multiple small screws: a biomechanical analysis with axial headless compression screw and clinical result of 15 consecutive cases. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2022. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05473-9 [12] Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint: A Follow-Up Study of 12 Years After Nonsurgical Treatment of Mallet Finger Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.03.027 [13] Salvage of failed Swanson’s arthroplasty of the distal interphalangeal joint. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231151217 [14] Arthrodesis of distal interphalangeal and thumb interphalangeal joint: a retrospective cohort study of 149 cases. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2024. 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