SAN ANTONIO — A simple treatment for basilar thumb arthritis that requires minimal convalescence may be just as effective as more complex procedures requiring a longer healing period, Nicholas J. Meyer, M.D., said at the joint annual meeting of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and the American Society of Hand Therapists.
The procedure consists of a trapezium excision to stabilize the first and second metacarpal bases, followed by packing of the trapezial space with Gelfoam and suture suspensionplasty, explained Dr. Meyer of St. Croix Orthopaedics, Stillwater, Minn.
Dr. Meyer and his associates treated 42 patients with the procedure. The outcomes were evaluated using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) survey, measures of grip and pinch strength, and radiographic assessment.
Radiographic follow-up showed that shortening of the metacarpal-scaphoid space occurred at an average of 4 mm within 2 months after surgery. Age, sex, or other diagnoses appeared to have no effect on this result.
Approximately 90% of patients reported satisfaction with their results, and 86% said they would repeat the treatment and recommend it to a friend. Ten percent were neutral or expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome.
“The results in this cohort of patients show satisfaction rates similar to other more complex procedures,” Dr. Meyer noted.
However, he said that a direct comparison study may be necessary to compare this procedure with trapeziectomy and the more complex procedures, such as ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition.