The role of dorsal blocking pinning for range of motion change of PIP joint after volar plate arthroplasty

Introduction: Volar plate arthroplasty is an effective surgical intervention for addressing PIP joint pathologies. However, concerns regarding postoperative ROM limitations have prompted the exploration of adjunctive techniques, such as dorsal blocking pinning. This article aims to investigate the role of dorsal blocking pinning in facilitating ROM changes in the PIP joint after volar plate arthroplasty.Material and Methods: ROM measurements of the PIP joint were obtained preoperatively and at regular postoperative follow-up visits. Active and passive flexion and extension of the PIP joint were measured using a goniometer. The goniometer was aligned with the longitudinal axis of the finger, with one arm aligned along the proximal phalanx and the other arm aligned along the middle phalanx. ROM measurements were recorded in degrees.Results: The ROM measurements of the PIP joint were obtained preoperatively and at regular postoperative follow-up visits. In the dorsal blocking pinning group, the mean preoperative flexion was ۴۵ degrees (SD=۸.۲) and the mean preoperative extension was ۱۰ degrees (SD=۳.۵). At the final follow-up visit, the mean flexion improved to ۶۰ degrees (SD=۶.۱) and the mean extension improved to ۲۰ degrees (SD=۴.۲)Conclusion: This study demonstrates that dorsal blocking pinning, when combined with volar plate arthroplasty, leads to significantly greater improvements in flexion and extension of the PIP joint compared to volar plate arthroplasty alone. These findings support the role of dorsal blocking pinning as an adjunctive procedure to enhance ROM outcomes and functional recovery following PIP joint arthroplasty.

Keywords:

dorsal blocking pinning , PIP , ROM , volar plate arthroplasty