Arthritis of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is common, and there are many studies regarding its treatment. We investigated the long-term outcome of interposition arthroplasty with a fascia lata allograft (pillow technique), without ligament reconstruction, to treat thumb carpometacarpal arthritis. The technique consisted of complete trapeziectomy, use of alloplastic tensor fascia lata, and K-wire immobilization for 5 weeks.
The outcomes of 31 thumbs in 24 female patients were measured at a mean follow-up of 12.5 years (range, 10-15 years).
Grip strength, key pinch, pulp-to-pulp pinch, tripod pinch, and range of motion were all improved. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand median score, which was only measured postoperatively, was an average of 5 (range, 0-52.6). No extrusion of the graft material was noted, and no revisions were performed.
Therapeutic IV.
Our results indicate that a fascia lata allograft can be used as an interposition material in thumb carpometacarpal arthroplasty. This technique provides pain relief and satisfactory function at an average of 12.5 years after surgery.