A rare complication of a metacarpophalangeal joint replacement in a rheumatoid hand: a case report

Metacarpophalangeal joint replacement is one of the most common surgery performed for rheumatoid hand deformities. The systemic and progressive nature of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis make isolated assessment and treatment of metacarpophalangeal joint joints challenging. Extensive joint involvement and systemic nature of the illness has an impact in the prognosis of the illness. The long term outcome of the surgical procedure depends on how best the illness is controlled. Technical aspects of the surgery in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can be widely variable and can make implant arthroplasty challenging. We present a case report of an unusual presentation of a rare complication following metacarpophalangeal joint replacement performed 17 years ago.