Outcomes after thumb carpometacarpal joint stabilization with an abductor pollicis longus tendon strip for the treatment of chronic instability

• DOI: 10.1007/s00402-019-03302-8
• Publication Date: 2019-11-06T10:03:31Z
• Authors: Alexandra Stauffer; Yvonne Schwarz; Marion Uranyi; Florian Schachinger; Werner Girsch; Rudolf Ganger; Sebastian Farr
• Keywords: Carpometacarpal joint; Subluxation; Tendon transfer; Hand strength

Instabilities of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, caused by idiopathic ligamentous hyperlaxity, trauma or other conditions may lead to pain, functional impairment and eventually osteoarthritis. Several techniques have been described enhance stability CMC 1. The aim this study was evaluate postoperative outcomes after 1 joint stabilization using a soft-tissue procedure in patients with chronic instability.This designed as retrospective single follow-up visit minimum year postoperatively. All who underwent an abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon strip for chronic, habitual instability were re-assessed clinical examination, dedicated outcome scores [Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); Disability Arm, Shoulder Hand (DASH) score; Nelson Kapandji opposition score], grip pinch strength measurements, radiographic examination.12 (15 operated thumbs) mean age at surgery 23.2 (± 9.3) years included period 3.5 1.3) years. indicated excellent results, DASH score 13.3 11.3), VAS 1.1 rest (and 2.8 during stress) 87.7 11.3). Postoperative grip, passive not significantly different between non-operated sides (p = 0.852; p 0.923 0.428, respectively). We observed one case recurrent besides no complications. However, trapezium hypoplasia (5 12) more prone signs stress testing.Thumb APL yielded low morbidity mid-term. long-term is needed assess specifically whether be symptom recurrence than those normal anatomy.Level IV.