To review the results of thumb trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis fixed by a quadrangular plate in osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint.
A retrospective review of trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis was performed. Sixteen arthrodesis with quadrangular plate fixation were performed on 14 patients. The mean age was 54 years (range 44鈥?0). The dominant hand was involved in 8 cases. The mean follow up was 28 months (range 10鈥?6 months). The DASH score and Mayo Wrist Score were used for functional evaluation. The visual analogue pain scale was used for pain evaluation. The ability to perform activities requiring use of the thumb and ability to return to work were also analysed. X-rays were evaluated to determine the consolidation rates and development of adjacent joint degeneration.
DASH score improves from 60 (range 50鈥?5) to 25 (range 5鈥?1) points. The overall mobility was decreased, but the results regarding the performance of daily living activities were improved. All but one patient return to their previous work. The average pain score improved from 6 (range 4鈥?0) to 2 (range 0鈥?). There were no cases of radiographic degeneration progression in adjacent joints. Arthrodesis consolidation was achieved in all cases.
Trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis is a reliable procedure for thumb osteoarthritis.