"Tie-in" trapezium prosthesis: Long-term results

Seventeen of 20 thumbs treated with a silicone-Dacron trapezium replacement arthroplasty for disabling rheumatoid and osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb were reviewed. Patients were uniformly satisfied with the results. Relief of pain was achieved in all but three patients. The latter required excision for tissue reaction to the implant. (Histological findings are reported in these cases.) Motion and stability were satisfactory but not normal. Postoperative subluxation occurred in six cases. Wear and bone erosion were present in two cases after operation.