Treatment of the trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis by arthroplasty with a pyrocarbon implant

Abstract

Purpose: Trapeziometacarpal (TM) osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis of the hand. To date, among surgical alternatives proposed, no one type has been proven superior to others. In this prospective study we evaluated the efficacy of treating arthroplasty with a latest-generation pyrocarbon implant (Pyrocardan).

Methods: Thirty-six patients with TM arthritis were treated using Pyrocardan implant arthroplasty. Results were evaluated through thumb radial and palmar abduction assessment, key pinch strength evaluation, thumb opposition assessment according to Kapandji classification, the visual analogue scale, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Patient's Satisfaction Index.

Results: There was substantial pain reduction and a satisfying increase in range of motion and strength (p < 0.01) and improvement in DASH score (p < 0.01). Average Patient's Satisfaction Index was 8 out of 10.

Conclusions: TM arthroplasty with Pyrocardan implantation is a suitable option in treating Eaton-Littler grade II or III TM osteoarthritis.

Keywords: Arthoplasty; Pyrocarbon; Pyrocardan; Rhizarthrosis; Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis.