Mini TightRope® suture button indications for thumb basal joint arthritis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Osteoarthritis Treatment

Background:

• Thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impacts hand function and quality of life.
• Traditional surgical treatments for severe OA include trapeziectomy with various reconstructive techniques.
• The Mini TightRope® suture button presents a novel option for first metacarpal suspension.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the indications and outcomes of the Mini TightRope® suture button in treating thumb carpometacarpal OA.
• To assess its efficacy in both primary and revision surgical settings.
• To compare its results with existing surgical methods.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 21 patients undergoing Mini TightRope® surgery for thumb OA.
• Included first-intention surgery (trapeziectomy and suspensioplasty) and revision surgery.
• Data collected: demographics, follow-up, pain levels, pinch strength, range of motion, metacarpal subsidence, and complications.

Main Results:

• Average follow-up was 2.5 years; significant reduction in pain at rest and under load.
• Postoperative pinch strength averaged 80% of the contralateral side.
• Trapeziectomy-suspensioplasty group showed greater trapezial space height than revision groups.

Conclusions:

• The Mini TightRope® is indicated for primary first metacarpal suspension and secondary surgery after failed trapeziectomy.
• It offers a shorter immobilization period, a key advantage over other suspensioplasty procedures.
• This device provides a viable solution for severe thumb carpometacarpal OA, improving pain and function.