Surgical treatment of tophaceous gout in the extremities

Objective To review some clinical experiences during the treatment of patients with tophus in the extremities, with a focus on the techniques in surgical procedures. Methods From February 2009 to February 2016, a total of 149 patients with chronic tophaceous gout of the extremities underwent surgical treatment at our center. The patients were follow-up at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively to guide functional exercises. Results After the initial surgery, 84 patients were follow-up from 1.5 to 7.4 years, with a mean duration of 2.4 years. All the patients were satisfied with the appearance. The function had greatly been improved. Range of motion of the upper limbs was increased significantly and the joints of the lower limbs had no weight-bearing pain. Conclusion Surgical removal should be performed at once when there is joint stiffness to prevent the joint erosion. The incidence of acute attacks can be reduced and the systematic uric acid load can be reduced as well. The available surgical interventions are the most efficient approach to improve the appearance and joint function. Key words: Extremities; Surgical procedures,operative; Tophus