Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2025
Novel Triple-Loop Technique for Suturing TFCC Injuries without Transosseous Tunnel
Published on: May 23, 2025
Time to return to work after total trapeziometacarpal prosthesis
Alain Tchurukdichian1, Anais Delgove2, Leila Essid3
1Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Dijon University Hospital, Boulevard de Lattre de Tassigny F-21000, Dijon, France; Chirurgie de la Main, Cliniques de Valmy et de Drevon, 1 bis cours Général de Gaulle F-21000 Dijon, France.
Trapeziometacarpal prosthesis surgery allows most patients to return to work within six weeks. This study found a 97% prosthesis survival rate, indicating successful outcomes for thumb base arthritis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Thumb base arthritis (trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis) significantly impacts daily activities and work capacity.
- Surgical intervention, including trapeziometacarpal prosthesis implantation, is a common treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the return-to-work rates and prosthesis survival following trapeziometacarpal prosthesis surgery.
- To identify factors influencing return to work and prosthesis longevity.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter retrospective study included 211 working patients who underwent trapeziometacarpal prosthesis surgery between 2002 and 2020.
- Return to work was defined as resuming the same full-time position.
- Postoperative complications, treatments, and return-to-work outcomes were documented.
Main Results:
- The study analyzed 240 prostheses, reporting a complication rate of 7.5% and a prosthesis survival rate of 97%.
- A significant majority of patients (94.3%) returned to work, with a mean return time of 48 days.
- Twelve patients did not return to work, with half attributed to prosthetic complications.
Conclusions:
- Trapeziometacarpal arthroplasty is an effective treatment for thumb base arthritis, facilitating a return to work for most patients.
- High prosthesis survival rates support the long-term viability of this surgical option.
