Der Unfallchirurg
-
Closed tendon ruptures of the thumb that require secondary reconstruction can affect the extensor pollicis longus (EPL), extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) and flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendons. Treatment of rupture of the EPB tendon consists of refixation to the bone and temporary transfixation of the joint. In the case of preexisting or posttraumatic arthrosis, definitive arthrodesis of the thumb is the best procedure. ⋯ Closed FPL ruptures at the wrist typically occur 3-6 months after osteosynthesis of distal radius fractures with palmar plates and are mostly characterized by crepitation and pain lasting for several weeks. They can be prevented by premature plate removal, synovectomy and carpal tunnel release. For treatment of a ruptured FPL tendon in adult patients the options for tendon reconstruction should be weighed up against the less complicated tenodesis or arthrodesis of the thumb interphalangeal joint.
-
In patients with carpometacarpal osteoarthritis of the thumb, treatment strategies should be based on functional impairment and pain. Although X‑ray imaging is an integral component of the diagnostics, it is of subordinate importance for the therapy algorithm. Conservative therapy is always the first step in the chain of treatment. ⋯ In this case isolated trapeziectomy is the method of choice. Suspension (interpositioning) arthroplasty is not associated with improved clinical results. More recent procedures which aim to avoid proximalization by tendon interposition, have not yet shown better clinical outcome compared to trapeziectomy alone.
-
Fractures of the first thumb ray are common and need accurate differential treatment to restore gripping hand functions. Displaced fractures of the distal and proximal phalanx of the thumb are often treated with screws or Kirschner wires. Stable fractures can also be treated non-operatively. Fractures of the base of the first metacarpal should be differentiated into extra-articular Winterstein fractures and intra-articular Bennett or Rolando fractures. ⋯ Good functional results can be achieved by operative treatment. Fractures of the trapezium are rare. If they are displaced, operative treatment is recommended to prevent osteoarthritis of the first carpometacarpal joint.
-
Review
[Treatment of instability of the metacarpophalangeal and trapeziometacarpal joints of the thumb].
Restoration of stability of the thumb represents an enormous gain of function for the patient and can be achieved by arthrodesis or ligament reconstruction. Ligament reconstruction should only be performed if good stability and mobility and a pain-free grip can also be achieved. ⋯ For both conditions arthrodesis is the most frequently used and easier surgical procedure. Ligament reconstruction is more difficult to perform but can maintain the mobility of these joints.