Trapeziectomy, Partial Trapezoidectomy, and Abductor Pollicis Longus Dual Loop Ligament Reconstruction for Advanced...

Although hand surgeons usually concur that arthroplasty is indicated for disabling basal joint arthritis, controversy persists regarding the preferred surgical methods. This article describes a novel technique of trapezial excisional arthroplasty with partial trapezoidectomy and abductor pollicis longus (APL) dual ligament reconstruction, and reports the long-term results of 150 cases. Based on this experience, we hypothesize that this technique is a reliably effective and durable surgical option for basal joint arthritis.

This study evaluated consecutive patients with Eaton and Littler advanced stage III/IV basal joint arthritis, treated by this procedure, and followed for a minimum of 10 years. Outcome assessment included grip and pinch strength, thumb mobility, radiographic parameters, pain relief, and patient-reported outcomes as measured with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scoring system.

A total of 150 thumbs in 124 patients with an average follow-up of 13.5 years (range, 10-22 years) were studied. Alleviation of pain and patient satisfaction were constant outcomes, and the mean DASH score was a normative 8.7. Grip and pinch strength were significantly improved (P < .001), carpometacarpal joint malalignment and adduction deformities were consistently corrected, complications were few, and revision surgery was unnecessary.

These results support the premise that trapeziectomy and partial trapezoidectomy with APL dual ligament stabilization is a reliable and durable arthroplasty for basal joint arthritis with distinct advantages and equally favorable outcomes when compared with other frequently employed methods.