Purpose: Symptomatic isolated scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint arthritis affects approximately 10% of the population. Investigation of the technique of arthroscopic debridement of this joint was done to assess symptom relief achieved and record any resulting postoperative morbidity.
Methods: Ten consecutive patients with persistent symptoms were assessed prospectively by a research nurse. Measurements of range of motion and grip strength were obtained before and after surgery. Visual analogue scores for pain and satisfaction levels also were recorded and any limitation to activities of daily living were noted.
Results: Good or excellent subjective results were achieved in 9 patients at final review at an average of 36 months (12-65 mo) after arthroscopic debridement. One patient graded the result as fair owing to failure to achieve normal range of motion. All patients showed a reduction in visual analogue pain scores, which improved from a mean of 86 to 14 points. The mean Green and O'Brien wrist scores improved from 63 to 91.
Conclusions: Arthroscopic debridement can provide good short-term symptomatic relief for isolated scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthritis with low risk for surgical complications.