[ARPE prosthesis: preliminary results]

Preliminary results of 45 trapeziometacarpal "ARPE" prostheses are reported with a mean follow-up of 22.4 months. Pain and mobility before and after operation were analysed. A special questionnaire was used to assess the result in activity of daily living. Pre and postoperative special X rays were also compared. Pain decreased in frequency and intensity and mobility improved. 97.1% of the patients were satisfied with their prosthesis after the operation. Comparison are pre- and postoperatives radiographs showed a tendency for both cup and stem to progressively sink into the bone.