Arthroplasty for post-traumatic carpometacarpal joint (CMC) V osteoarthritis with minced cartilage: a case report

Fractures and dislocations of the bases of the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones are rare, accounting for <1 % of all hand injuries. If left untreated or inadequately fixed, there is a risk of persistent pain, functional impairment, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. While common surgical approaches such as arthrodesis or suspension arthroplasty have been described, data on alternative treatment options remain limited.

This case report presents the first documented use of minced cartilage for treating post-traumatic CMC V osteoarthritis. A 17-year-old patient experienced persistent pain following fracture fixation with K-wires. After debriding arthrotomy, cartilage was harvested from the hamate bone, minced, and combined with platelet rich plasma before implantation. One year postoperatively, the patient showed improved joint space, complete pain relief, and restored hand function.

Preliminary results suggest that minced cartilage may offer a promising alternative, but further studies are needed to confirm its long-term efficacy.