Patient-reported pain and hand function: important determinants of the postoperative results one year after PIP arthroplasty

TL;DR

This study shows that pre-surgery pain and hand function are strong predictors of outcomes one year after PIP joint replacement for osteoarthritis.

Contribution

The study identifies preoperative factors that predict postoperative pain and hand function after PIP arthroplasty.

Findings

Lower preoperative pain was linked to lower postoperative pain after one year.

Better preoperative hand function predicted better postoperative function.

Use of surface replacement implants was associated with improved postoperative hand function.

Abstract

This study aimed to assess determinants associated with patient-reported pain and hand function 12 months after proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty for osteoarthritis.

Prospectively gathered data of 113 patients, who completed the Michigan Hand outcomes Questionnaire preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively, was used. We compared pre- and 12-month postoperative (categorized) MHQ pain and hand function scores and assessed determinants associated with the postoperative scores.

The Michigan Hand outcomes Questionnaire pain and hand function scores at intake were 41 (SD 19) and 52 (SD 17), respectively, and 65 (SD 23) and 63 (17) after surgery. Less pain at intake was associated with less pain 12 months postoperatively. The following determinants were associated with better hand function after surgery: better hand function at intake, surgery on the dominant hand, and the use of surface replacement implants.

MHQ scores at intake were significantly associated with postoperative MHQ scores. This knowledge can be used during preoperative consultation to improve shared decision making and create adequate patients’ expectations.

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