Use of the entire width of the flexor carpi radialis tendon for the ligament reconstruction tendon interposition arthroplasty does not impair wrist function.

Although the original technical description of the ligament reconstruction tendon interposition arthroplasty as treatment for osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb included use of one half of the width of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon, it has been recommended that the entire width be used to simplify harvest and provide a larger piece of tissue for ligament reconstruction. The objective of this study was to evaluate preoperative and postoperative wrist motion and flexion strength, subjectively and objectively, to identify whether the use of the entire width of the FCR tendon results in decline or weakness. Our findings show neither subjective nor objective impairment of wrist motion or flexion strength at 1-year follow-up; 6 months after the procedure, strength had returned nearly to baseline.