Surgical approaches to the trapeziometacarpal joint for the insertion of implants and prostheses (non-arthroscopy)

Abstract

The two approaches most often used for placing implants and trapeziometacarpal prostheses are the laterodorsal approach and the lateropalmar approach. The advantages and disadvantages of these two approaches are set out. Each one allows optimal joint exposure while preserving or repairing the peritrapezial musculotendinous structures. They allow the insertion of partial or total trapeziometacarpal implants and modern coupled trapeziometacarpal prostheses. Each approach must be practiced and mastered on cadaver specimens before being used for trapeziometacarpal surgery.