Septic arthritis of the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of the hand.

Septic arthritis of the small joints of the hand is not reported frequently. Twenty-eight patients were treated during a 15-month period, from November 1992 to January 1994. Prompt surgical drainage, antibiotics, and early postoperative mobilization (within 24 hours) were the cornerstones of management. Nineteen patients were available for a median follow-up of 10 months. Patients who presented after 10 days all had a poor result. Patients who presented earlier achieved a good result unless they defaulted from treatment or had sustained an associated severe traumatic joint injury. Ten of the 19 patients obtained a good result. Good functional results can be obtained with early postoperative mobilization.