Abstract
Background Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint arthroscopy has been available for many years but
sparingly used in typical orthopaedic and hand surgery daily practice. Difficult problems
are solved with this technique in a practical and minimally invasive manner. This
study describes our diverse experience and broad clinical applications of MCP arthroscopy
as well as clinical results. It aims to highlight this technique as one of the tools
for a fully trained hand surgeon, avoiding open management and its high complications
rates.
Methods We present a retrospective clinical series of 79 patients treated with MCP arthroscopy
with a mean age of 44 years old. Demographics, surgery, and clinical outcomes were
collected in standardized clinical assessments.
Results We divided the sample into 20 articular metacarpal or proximal phalanx acute fracture
with full functional fist and range of motion at 60 days after surgery. Regarding
collateral tears, 12 were classified as acute and 47 as chronic. Two patients were
reoperated for further gain range of motion.
Conclusions We present an up-to-date publication of our experience in MCP arthroscopy and its
applications, with a low complication rate and excellent clinical results. We encourage
hand surgeons to incorporate this technique in MCP joint challenging issues.
Level of Evidence IV
Keywords
arthroscopy - metacarpophalangeal joint - small joint
