Denervation of the distal interphalangeal joint.

Distal interphalangeal joint osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions hand surgeons have to deal with. When daily manual activities are impaired by symptoms, surgical treatment is indicated. Usually, this is carried out by means of arthrodesis, being joint replacement another option. In this study, a technique for distal interphalangeal joint denervation is presented as a treatment for painful degenerative or posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Potential complications and contraindications are also discussed.