Five-to-8-year prospective follow-up of 61 Touch® trapeziometacarpal prostheses

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of the first patients who received a dual-mobility trapeziometacarpal prosthesis in our centre, for first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis, with a minimum 5-year follow-up.

Fifty-seven patients received a total trapeziometacarpal ball-and-socket arthroplasty with the Touch® prosthesis for severe arthritis and one for significant laxity. Four patients underwent bilateral surgery. One was lost of follow-up and three died during the study. Function was assessed before surgery and at one, 3, 5 and 10-years follow-up visits. Visual analog scale for pain, active thumb range of motion, including Kapandji's score, key-pinch grip strength and patients' satisfaction outcomes were recorded by an independent observer. Standardized radiographs were obtained to assess osteolysis, loosening, and subsidence.

Patients were followed for an average of 6.5 years (5-8.8). Pain decreased from 7.3 to 0.4, range of motion increased, and key grip strength improved from 67% to 102% of the contralateral side. Metacarpophalangeal hyperextension was present in 26 thumbs (46%) before surgery (5 severe, more than 30°), and in 19 thumbs (33%) at follow-up. Z-deformity was reported in 13 cases (23%) preoperatively and in 2 cases (4%) postoperatively. At maximum follow-up, radiographs showed minor osteolysis in 4 cases (7%) around the trapezium component and in 7 cases (12%) around the metacarpal component. One revision (2%) was required for cup loosening 7 years after surgery. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment.

This prospective study of 61 Touch® dual mobility prostheses confirms that this implant is a safe and effective treatment option for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis in the short and medium term. Continued follow-up is necessary to assess the long-term outcomes of this arthroplasty.

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