Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis using the X-Fuse® implant: A retrospective study of 54 fingers with 24 months’ follow-up

Abstract

We report the clinical and radiographic results of distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint arthrodesis using the X-Fuse® implant with a mean follow-up of 24 months (6–54). Forty-one patients (33 women and 8 men) with a mean age of 65 years were operated on. DIP joint arthrodesis was performed on 54 fingers for advanced osteoarthritis resistant to medical treatment. Pain evaluated on a visual analog scale (/10) was reduced significantly, going from 5 to 0.47. Functional DASH and PRWE-Hand Scores (/100) were improved by 33 and 36 points, respectively. Four fingers (7.4%) were sensitive to cold. No cases of nail dystrophy were reported. The fusion rate was 89%. Of the six patients (11%) who suffered a non-union, there was one case of asymptomatic fracture of the implant, without reoperation, and one case of infection, which required revision surgery. The fusion position was stable at the review visit. The repeat surgery rate was 3.7%; both cases were for infection. In light of this study, the X-Fuse® implant is a viable alternative to traditional arthrodesis techniques (compression screws and pins), with a similar fusion rate. This implant appears to be very well tolerated by patients, with an absence of nail dystrophy and a reduction in the risk of infection.