Biomaterial Database

The rheumatoid metacarpophalangeal joint. 2011

Frank D Burke

Pulvertaft Hand Centre, Royal Derby Hospital, Uttoxeter Road 28 Midland Place, Derby DE22 3NE 5, UK. frank.burke@virgin.net

Rheumatoid metacarpophalangeal joint deformities remain an important cause of disability. Surgical intervention in carefully selected patients improves function and prolongs independence. This article discusses the commonly used reconstructive techniques and their benefits. Case selection through a combined clinic with rheumatologists and hand therapists is recommended.

UI	MeSH Term	Description	Entries
D008662	Metacarpophalangeal Joint	The articulation between a metacarpal bone and a phalanx.	Joint, Metacarpophalangeal,Joints, Metacarpophalangeal,Metacarpophalangeal Joints
D006227	Hand Deformities, Acquired	Deformities of the hand, or a part of the hand, acquired after birth as the result of injury or disease.	Acquired Hand Deformities,Acquired Hand Deformity,Deformities, Acquired Hand,Deformity, Acquired Hand,Hand Deformity, Acquired
D006801	Humans	Members of the species Homo sapiens.	Homo sapiens,Man (Taxonomy),Human,Man, Modern,Modern Man
D001172	Arthritis, Rheumatoid	A chronic systemic disease, primarily of the joints, marked by inflammatory changes in the synovial membranes and articular structures, widespread fibrinoid degeneration of the collagen fibers in mesenchymal tissues, and by atrophy and rarefaction of bony structures. Etiology is unknown, but autoimmune mechanisms have been implicated.	Rheumatoid Arthritis