Surgeon Preference, Influence, and Treatment of Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate current surgical practice patterns, the factors that influence these patterns, and overall trends in the treatment of thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.

An online survey containing 14 questions was sent to all active members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Information on demographics and treatments was collected. Results were anonymously uploaded to an online spreadsheet.

A total of 823 responses were recorded. Trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI) using whole flexor carpi radialis was the most popular technique at 37.44%. In all, 26.38% of surgeons with fewer than 5 years of experience utilize trapeziectomy with suture suspension (bone anchor based or tendon based); 55.76% choose a particular procedure because of "Personal Clinical Experience" over "Current Evidence" and "Training." In addition, 24.17% of surgeons who have been practicing for longer than 5 years have changed procedures in the last 5 years. In the United States, 97.2% of hand surgeons prescribe either oxycodone or hydrocodone postoperatively compared with just 23.75% of international hand surgeons.

The results show that trapeziectomy with LRTI remains the most popular treatment of choice. The use of trapeziectomy with suture suspension is on the rise, particularly in younger surgeons. International hand surgeons rely more on current evidence, utilize less postoperative therapy and opioid medications, and change procedures more often than US hand surgeons.