ORIGINAL ARTICLES   

Minerva Ortopedica e Traumatologica 2004 December;55(6):271-7

Copyright © 2004 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: Italian

The results of trapeziectomy with suspended arthroplasty according to ceruso in the treatment of rhizarthrosis

Ceffa R., Sguazzini P., Désayeux S., Mordente G.

S. S. di Chirurgia della Mano S. C. di Ortopedia e Traumatologia Azienda Ospedaliera Maggiore della Carità, Novara

Aim. The results obtained in a continuous series
of cases of metacarpal trapezium arthrosis (MTA) treated by trapeziectomy and suspended arthroplasty according to Ceruso are reported.
Methods. Thirty-two cases of MTA (28 patients, 4 of them with bilateral MTA) treated between July 1996 and December 2002 at the Hand Surgery Section of the Orthopaedic and Trau-matology Department of the Novara Maggiore della Carità Hospital Unit were examined. Preoperative data and data regarding the operation and postoperative course were collected. The patients were followed up at a minimum of 1 year, maximum of 6 years, by means of clinical and X-ray examination; 10 cases were also submitted to magnetic resonance.
Results. Analysis of the results made it possible
to conclude that predictable and temporary complications, namely slight pain, metacarpo-phalangeal stiffness, tendinitis of the radial flexor of the carpus occur in the first 3 months. These events, in the patients of this series, were usually resolved within the first 3 months after the operation, either spontaneously or with appropriate treatment. Results at long-term follow-up were all very good (disappearance of the pain, recovery of stability and joint motility, recovery of first radius functionality) with patient satisfaction. These results were not achieved immediately but generally 3-6 months after the operation.
Conclusion. Adequate preliminary information
regarding the possibility of temporary postoperative complications and the time probably
necessary for the attainment of the final result
should be given to the patient to guarantee a
serene postoperative course.