Trapeziometacarpal joint ligament reconstruction in early stages of first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.

Trapeziometacarpal joint ligament reconstruction is a surgical option in the early stages of thumb basal joint arthritis when the joint is painful and unstable without chondropathy. Arthroscopy is invaluable here to ensuring the joint surfaces are intact, which is often underestimated by radiography. The Eaton-Littler procedure using a distally pedicled flexor carpi radialis slip has been studied the most in this context. This reconstruction provides pain relief while slowing the rapid development of osteoarthritis.