Arthroscopic total trapeziectomy

Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis is a common pathology resulting in severe impairments in daily living activities. Many procedures have been described in the treatment of stages Eaton II, III and IV. Bibliographical research evidences that other techniques could not improve the results of the simple trapeziectomy. A surgical technique with an arthroscopically assisted total resection of the trapezium is described. This technique is carried out with a 2.7-mm arthroscope, using the conventional portals (1R and 1U) and a fluoroscan. Surgery ends with soft dressings and rehabilitation begins immediately. In the last 9 years, we treated more than 70 patients. Video-assisted total trapeziectomy offers a simple technique with sufficient postoperative comfort that allows an early return to the daily living activities.