Abductor pollicis longus tendon interposition for arthrosis in the first carpometacarpal joint

Abstract

We have performed an interposition arthroplasty using the abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon for arthrosis in the basal joint of the thumb in our department since 1995. Before this, we had been using an interposition with the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon. We re-examined 47 patients (55 thumbs) after a median follow-up of 41 (16–60) months. The pain relief was excellent in 32 thumbs, and 25 patients improved their ability to perform daily tasks. Mobility was well preserved. Key pinch and grip strengths averaged 78% and 89%, respectively, of those in unaffected hands. An excellent general result was reported by 34 patients, while 4 patients would not have consented to the operation if they had known the outcome in advance.