Basal joint osteoarthritis of the thumb treated with Weilby arthroplasty: a prospective study on the early postoperative course of 106 consecutive cases.

One hundred and six consecutive cases of osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint, treated by tendon interposition arthroplasty as described by Weilby, were followed prospectively, with assessment of pain, mobility, pinch and grip strength at 6, 12, 26 and 52 weeks. Patient satisfaction was reviewed at 26 and 52 weeks. Preoperative visual analogue scores for pain averaged 65 and decreased postoperatively to an average of 12 at 52 weeks. The main decrease in pain occurred during the first 3 months after operation. Mobility was improved or unaltered in 82%. Average grip and pinch strength reached preoperative values (41 kPa and 20 kPa respectively) between 12 and 26 weeks after surgery and were significantly greater (58 kPa and 34 kPa) at 52 weeks. Recovery after suspension arthroplasty takes 3-6 months, which may be a disadvantage to be considered when advising patients who are considering operative treatment.