Arthrodesis of the trapeziometacarpal joint

Because degenerative changes in the trapeziometacarpal joint are a common cause of pain and weakness of the thumb, particularly in postmenopausal women, we have evaluated the functional and radiological results of arthrodesis in 43 patients. Arthrodesis is a safe and effective way of treating isolated painful arthritis in the trapeziometacarpal joint; solid fusion occurred in 39 cases, and four patients had fibrous union. All but four patients were satisfied with the operation including three of the four patients with fibrous union. Thirty-one of the patients had no functional restrictions (decreased range of movement), 34 were free of pain at rest, and 25 were free of pain all the time.