Ligament Reconstruction of the Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint using a Modified Eaton and Littler Technique

Abstract

A modification of the Eaton and Littler technique for reconstructing ligaments and restoring stability of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is described. We use a strip from the flexor carpi radialis tendon, which is split down to the crest of the trapezium. The tendon strip is led beneath the ligaments and the abductor pollicis longus insertion, through a tunnel drilled in the metacarpal base, around the insertion of the flexor carpi radialis tendon and finally back to the dorsum of the base of the metacarpal where it is inserted in the periosteum. This procedure ensures a dynamic fixation of the apical ligament and therefore a better stability.