Mini TightRope Suspensionplasty Versus Ligament Reconstruction and Tendon Interposition for Thumb Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis

Thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis is a common cause of pain, weakness and functional disability. Trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI) is considered a standard surgical procedure, whereas Mini TightRope suspensionplasty has been introduced to facilitate earlier mobilization while maintaining first metacarpal stability. This prospective randomized single-center clinical trial compares Mini TightRope suspensionplasty with LRTI in patients with symptomatic Eaton-Littler stage II-IV thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis. Fifty patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to undergo either Mini TightRope suspensionplasty or LRTI. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years postoperatively. The primary outcome was the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (qDASH) score at 2 years. Secondary outcomes included pain, thumb opposition, grip strength, pinch strength, operative time, radiographic preservation of metacarpal height and complications.