Palmar plate capsulodesis for thumb metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension in association with trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis

Abstract

Hyperextension of the thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint is frequently seen with trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis, but there is no consensus on the indication for, or type of, treatment. We re-examined 12 thumbs at a mean of 9 (range 6-13) years following MCP capsulodesis using a suture anchor performed with trapeziectomy. Mean MCP hyperextension improved from 45° pre-operatively to 19° at 1 year post-operatively. At 9 years follow-up, it had increased to 30° but was still significantly better than pre-operatively (p = 0.007). Mean MCP flexion was 37° and near normal opposition was retained. The median pain score had improved from 5.5 to 1 (p = 0.002). Thumb key and tip pinch and hand grip strength showed no significant change from pre-operative values. No thumb MCP had symptomatic radiological degeneration. Our results suggest that MCP capsulodesis preserves a useful range of MCP flexion but stretches out over time. However, this did not result in increased pain or thumb weakness.