Locking Plate Arthrodesis Compares Favorably with LRTI for Thumb Trapeziometacarpal Arthrosis: Early Outcomes from a Longitudinal Cohort Study

ConclusionsAt early follow-up, patient-rated function was similar among patients undergoing TMA and LRTI. TMA produced 25% greater pinch strength compared with LRTI. Despite historical concerns regarding global loss of ROM with arthrodesis, motion was similar between groups. Our observed TMA nonunion rate of 7% is low relative to historically reported nonunion rates (7 –16%). Locking cage plate technology affords rigid fixation for TMA with promising early results noting reliable bony union while minimizing complications.

Source: HSS Journal - October 12, 2016 Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research