Abstract

A functional hand with mobile joints is important for a human being's daily life. Unless stability, strength, and power are needed, arthrodesis of finger metacarpophalangeal(MCP) joint is not chosen. Fusion angle of the MCP joints follows the natural cascade of the hand. To measure the accurate angle, goniometry is counted as the gold standard method; however, many surgeons depend on visual estimation. Overlapping of metacarpal bones and MCP joints make it difficult to estimate the angle visually. A smartphone protractor application and two 21 G green needles may be useful to overcome this difficulty.

Key words: angle; arthrodesis; finger; metacarpophalangeal joint