Abstract
Background Osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb is the most frequent osteoarthritis of the hand. Trapeziectomy in a broad variety of surgical methods have been proposed to achieve pain reduction and improvement of thumb function. A well-known disadvantage is the long recovery time. Arthroplasty of the thumb carpometacarpal joint is a competing new method for this indication with different revision and complication rates reported. Purposes The aim of this study is to assess whether there are significant differences in outcome during the first 12 months and time return to work after either, implant of a Maïa joint prosthesis, or trapeziectomy with tendon interposition after Weilby. Patients and Methods This clinical follow-up study compares the efficacy of total basal joint replacement using the Maïa prosthesis with tendon interposition arthroplasty in 59 thumbs. Clinical, functional, and radiological results at preoperative, 3-, 6-, and 12-month postoperative are presented. Results We found a significant shorter return to work in the prosthesis group with 4.5 compared with 8.6 weeks. In addition to a significant difference in pain reduction with a better Mayo wrist score in the Maïa group after 3 months. The scores are closer after 6 months and nearly match after 12 months. Measurement of the pinch grip showed a parallel course. A radiological loosening of the cup in two patients was detected after 12 months. Conclusion Implantation of Maïa prosthesis enables a significant shorter recovery but is associated with the risk of loosening and higher costs. Level of Evidence Level IV, case-control study.