If thumb arthritis or rhizarthrosis has made your daily tasks difficult, you may have wondered about medical options to get relief. One of those options is trapeziometacarpal prostheses (TMP). But how effective are they? A recent study gives us new insights into their major complications and what happens if they fail.
Here are three key points from the study:
- Dislocation and loosening are the most common problems with these implants.
- Not all TMP models perform the same over time.
- Technical precision and implant design play a big role in long-term success.
- What are trapeziometacarpal prostheses?
- How well do they work?
- What are the common complications?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion and next steps
- Disclaimer
- Full article citation
What are trapeziometacarpal prostheses?
Trapeziometacarpal prostheses, or TMPs, are small implants used to treat severe thumb arthritis, also called rhizarthrosis. This condition affects the joint at the base of your thumb, making it painful to grip, twist, or even open jars. TMPs replace the damaged joint surfaces to reduce pain and improve movement.
You may be wondering why this approach is becoming popular. The idea is that replacing the worn-out joint could help bring back the thumb’s function and take away the pain.
How well do they work?
Let’s look closer at the study findings. Researchers reviewed 224 trapeziometacarpal prostheses implanted between 2006 and 2021. They examined six different models of TMPs:
| Model | Survival Rate | Years Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Arpe(R) | 95.5% | 6-16 |
| Elektra(R) | 80% | 13-14 |
| Ivory(R) | 92.8% | 9-11 |
| Maia(R) | 100% | 8-9 |
| Isis(R) | 99.1% | 1-8 |
| Touch(R) | 100% | 1-4 |
Models like Maia(R), Isis(R), and Touch(R) showed excellent survival rates, performing well even after several years. On the other hand, Elektra(R) had a much lower survival rate, which is something to keep in mind.
What are the common complications?
Here is where it gets interesting. The researchers found that dislocation and loosening were the most frequent problems. Dislocation means the implant moves from its proper place in the joint. Loosening happens when the implant stops holding tightly. Together, these issues affected about 7.5% of the TMPs studied.
- Dislocations: 3.5%
- Loosening or mobilization: 4%
The Elektra(R) model was linked to almost half of these complications. Proper placement of the implant seemed to play a key role in reducing problems. Implants placed with scopic guidance had better angles and appeared to be more stable.
If an implant fails, patients may need what’s called salvage surgery. This is a procedure to fix the problem or remove the implant. In total, 19 patients required salvage surgery, but only 3% experienced complete loss of the implant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is rhizarthrosis?
Rhizarthrosis is arthritis in the thumb joint, causing pain and difficulty with everyday tasks like opening jars or holding objects.
How long do trapeziometacarpal prostheses usually last?
It depends on the model and placement. The study found some implants lasted over 10 years with high survival rates, while others didn’t perform as well.
What are the risks of TMP implantation?
The main risks are dislocation and loosening of the implant. If these happen, you might need another surgery.
Conclusion and next steps
To recap, trapeziometacarpal prostheses can be effective for thumb arthritis, but they do come with risks. The study shows that choosing the right model and ensuring careful placement can make a big difference.
If you’re dealing with thumb pain or arthritis, consider speaking with your doctor about whether a TMP is a good option for you. They can help you decide and explain everything based on your needs.
Disclaimer
This blog should not replace professional medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options.
Full article citation
Sanchez-Crespo, M. R.; Couceiro-Otero, J.; Del Canto-Alvarez, F. J.; Ayala-Gutierrez, H.; Holgado-Fernandez, M., 2024