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

Various indications exist for thumb interphalangeal and finger distal interphalangeal arthrodesis. Various fixation techniques (compression screws, tension band wiring, K-wires) have been described with fusion rates varying between 80 and 100%. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of interphalangeal arthrodesis using the X-Fuse(®) intramedullary implant in terms of fusion rate and fusion position. A continuous series of 38 arthrodesis procedures was reviewed retrospectively to determine the fusion rate and evaluate complications linked to this fixation technique. The position of the fused joint was compared to that obtained at the end of the procedure so as to evaluate the reliability of implant placement. The fusion rate was 94.8%; two arthrodeses had to be redone with satisfactory results. A moderate change of less than 10 degrees in the arthrodesis position between the immediate postoperative period and fusion was observed in the frontal and sagittal planes that had no clinical consequences. The fusion rate reported here is similar to the best rates published with other fusion techniques, and few complications occurred. Use of this intramedullary implant seems to be a viable alternative to the other techniques.