Arthrodesis of the Bovine Distal Interphalangeal Joint

Abstract

Intractable infection of the distal interphalangeal joint or of structures closely associated with that articulation is a common sequela to several diseases affecting the digital region. Amputation of the affected digit has been the most common line of treatment but is one that cannot always be justified on economic grounds. Arthrodesis of the bovine distal interphalangeal joint is a practical alternative to amputation. This paper discusses the principles involved in considering and facilitating this line of treatment.

The writer's experience in treating cases of articular or periartical infection has been encouraging. The technique varied to some extent throughout the series treated, but the most rapid resolution has been
observed in instances in which drainage tracks were laid directly through the focus of infection. It should
be noted that surgical interference in cases where natural resolution is already occurring is likely to initiate
an acute reaction.