Trapeziectomy and Ligament Reconstruction Tendon Interposition Technique Experience for the First Carpometacarpal Joint Arthrosis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis of the hand is rare; however, the most retained joint after the distal interphalangeal joint is the first carpometacarpal (1. CMC) joint. Pain in the rest and increased pain with opposition is the most serious symptom, which significantly decreases the quality of life. The aim of these patients is to obtain a painless and stable thumb. Experience of trapeziectomy and ligament reconstruction tendon interposition technique for a Stage III patient was shared and diagnosis and treatment were discussed through the relevant literature. A 53-year-old female patient was admitted with complaints of pain in the right hand thumb root and unable to open the jar lid. In direct radiography, narrowing in the 1. CMC joint space and osteophytes were detected. After the trapeziectomy, 1st and 2nd metacarpals were fixed with K wire. Flexor carpi radialis tendon was passed from the first metacarpal base to the second metacarpal base in the form of a distal-based tendon flap to mimic the beak ligament. There was no pain at the postoperative 6th month, and the Kapandji opposition score was 10. When diagnosing 1. CMC osteoarthritis, pain during opposition and circumduction movements that is not relieved with analgesics and rest is the most important symptom for a clinician to look for. Many treatment principles have been defined according to the staging for the postdiagnosis period, despite the diagnosis is a challenging process.