Palmar plate interposition (Tupper) arthroplasty for post-traumatic metacarpophalangeal osteoarthritis.

We report the results of five interposition palmar plate (Tupper) arthroplasties for post-traumatic or post-infection osteoarthritis of metacarpophalangeal joints. All were pain free at a median follow-up of 4 years. The mean arc of joint flexion was 55 degrees and finger to thumb tip pinch was 60% of normal. All patients had reduced grip strength, but were satisfied with the procedure.