The Anatomy of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint and the Extensor Mechanism of the Finger

Abstract

The renowned American hand surgeon Ray Curtis has described the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint as the epicentre of hand surgery. Those of you that have dealt with problems of the PIP joint will understand the wisdom of this statement. Part, if not most, of the problem in dealing with the PIP joints is the very nature of the anatomy and the proximity of so many structures around this small area. The joint is a marvel of engineering construction though frequently described as a hinge joint this is a gross oversimplification.