The metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty in rheumatoid arthritis reported is a modification of the Vainio-Arthroplasty. The main difference of the technique is the fixation of the proximal extensor tendon to the palmar plate, better to the ligamentum metacarpeum transversum profundum. The more flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joint the more reposition of the joint is achieved. The long-term results of 30 arthroplasties of the metacarpophalangeal joint are presented in a prospective study. The cases were followed for 10.5 to 14.5 years (average 11.6 years). Marked release of pain was found in all patients. 75 per cent of the patients reported functional improvement of their hand at a score of "good" or "very good". The postoperative movement was 70 degrees on an average. In summary, the resection arthroplasty of the metacarpophalangeal joints produces very good function and correction of the ulnar deviation and palmar luxation of the MCP-joints. The arthroplasty is a real alternative to the total endoprosthetic replacement of metacarpophalangeal joints in rheumatoid arthritis.