Comparing two methods for treating thumb arthritis

Trapeziectomy With Internal Brace Versus Ligament Reconstruction With Tendon Interposition; a Prospective Study

Not applicable Interventional Henry Ford Health System · NCT05753891

This study is testing two different surgical methods for treating thumb arthritis to see which one helps patients feel better and use their thumbs more easily.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHenry Ford Health System Academic / other
Locations1 site (Detroit, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT05753891 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares two surgical techniques for trapeziectomy in patients with basilar thumb arthritis. The control group undergoes the traditional method, which involves ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition, while the experimental group receives a novel approach using suture tape suspension to stabilize the 1st metacarpal. The goal is to evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of these two methods in alleviating symptoms and improving function. Patients will be monitored for their recovery and overall satisfaction with the procedure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with symptomatic basilar thumb arthritis who have not found relief through conservative treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with significant medical comorbidities that prevent safe surgery or those requiring additional procedures at the 1st carpometacarpal joint may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with a more effective surgical option for managing thumb arthritis.

How similar studies have performed: While the traditional method has been widely used, the novel approach with suture tape suspension is relatively new and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients of Henry Ford Orthopedic Service Line
* Symptomatic basilar thumb arthritis refractory to conservative management

Exclusion Criteria:

* Significant medical comorbidity precluding safe surgery, as determined by the operating surgeon. This may include cardiac disease, renal disease, liver disease, pulmonary disease, or heavy substance abuse.
* Requirement for additional procedures at the 1st carpometacarpal joint, including trapezoid excision-whole or partial-or metacarpal osteotomy. Of note other existing conditions requiring intervention on a separate surgical site such as concomitant carpal tunnel syndrome or trigger fingers will NOT be used as exclusion criteria.

Where this trial is running

Detroit, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Basilar Thumb Arthritis
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.