Trapeziometacarpal Arthrodesis Technique and Outcomes using a Nitinol Compression Staple

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand surgery
• Musculoskeletal research

Background:

• Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC OA) significantly impacts quality of life, especially after conservative treatments fail.
• Traditional arthrodesis techniques for TMC OA may have high nonunion rates, deterring some surgeons.
• Nitinol compression staples offer a potential solution to improve fusion rates and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of trapeziometacarpal (TMC) arthrodesis using the Speed™ Continuous Compression Nitinol Fixation System.
• To assess fusion rates, functional improvements, and patient satisfaction in a consecutive series of TMC OA patients.
• To present a reliable surgical technique for managing trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study of 60 patients (72 thumbs) undergoing TMC arthrodesis with Nitinol compression staples and autogenous bone graft.
• Collection and analysis of subjective, clinical, and radiographic outcomes, including fusion rates, strength measurements, and patient-reported scores.
• Utilized the Speed™ Continuous Compression Nitinol Fixation System for stable fixation and compression.

Main Results:

• Achieved a high fusion rate of 95.8% (69/72 thumbs), with only two nonunions requiring revision.
• Demonstrated significant improvements in key pinch strength (6.7 to 9.3 kg) and grip strength (33.7 to 41.1 kg).
• Reported high patient satisfaction (94%) and willingness to repeat the procedure, with favorable postoperative QuickDASH scores.

Conclusions:

• Trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis utilizing Nitinol Compression staples is a dependable treatment for TMC OA.
• The technique is associated with a low nonunion rate, leading to successful fusion.
• This method results in excellent patient satisfaction and significant gains in hand strength.