Thumb Carpometacarpal Stabilization With a Dorsal Capsule Repair Augmented With an Internal Brace

Abstract

Optimal surgical treatment of first carpometacarpal joint instability remains a subject of debate. Consensus on thumb carpometacarpal stability originating with the dorsoradial ligamentous complex has shifted reconstruction techniques towards stabilization dorsally. We describe a dorsal stabilization technique with internal brace augmentation of the dorsoradial ligamentous complex. A single fellowship-trained hand surgeon treated 10 women, average age 34 years (range, 21 to 52 y) and 1 man, age 34 years, between 2019 and 2022. Average patient follow-up was 2 years. Patient satisfaction was high. Further trials are needed to determine whether the procedure will prevent or delay the presentation of thumb carpometacarpal arthrosis.