Abstract
The frequency and causes of joint stiffness are reviewed. The most sophisticated repair may be for naught if the joints stiffen. Treatment of the established condition leaves much to be desired. Since mobility cannot be maintained during many postoperative periods and during the treatment of many conditions, any aid to prophylaxis is desirable especially if the side effects are negligible.
Steroids have been chosen because of their influence on collagen metabolism and because much is known of their toxicity and side effects. The drug was first given into the knee joints of rats where it was found effective in preventing joint stiffness in joints immobilized three weeks.
In view of the animal success, fourteen patients with thenar pedicles have had a single dose of triamcinolone injected into the peri-articular tissues of their proximal interphalangeal joints at the time of construction of the pedicle. Follow up observation shows all patients to have complete proximal interphalangeal joint extension and flexion to 95°. Side effects were minimal.
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