Total joint arthroplasty for the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb-a preliminary report.
A prosthetic device for the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb and the preliminary clinical results are described. The prosthesis is a hinged metal-and-polyethylene device that is cemented into the shaft of the metacarpal and proximal phalanx. Forty-two prostheses were inserted into the thumbs of 38 patients. Follow-up of 12 to 40 months revealed an average motion of 16° and an improvement in pinch and position. No infections occurred, and no reoperations were necessary. Two patients had radiographic evidence of loosening, but both were asymptomatic.Key words: Finger prostheses; thumb arthroplasty; hinged metal-polyethylene prosthesis; total joint arthroplasty; and metacarpophalangeal joint prosthesis.
R D
RD
Beckenbaugh
A D
AD
Steffee