Suspensionplasty with Internal Bracing Versus Other CMC Arthroplasty Procedures in Patients with OA of the CMC: A Prospective Cohort Study Comparing Strength, Functional, and Quality of Life Outcomes

 

Learner Outcomes

• Participants will be able to understand the functional, strength, and quality of life outcomes for CMC arthroplasty with Internal bracing compared to other CMC arthroplasty procedures.
  Participants will be able to describe common outcomes after CMC surgery.

 

Abstract

Background: Carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition treated by hand therapists. Although several surgical procedures exist, no single method has demonstrated superior outcomes based on individual functional needs and goals. Suspensionplasty with internal bracing has shown improvements in function and strength compared to pre-surgical levels, but its comparative outcomes to other CMC arthroplasties remain unclear.

Purpose: To compare outcomes of suspensionplasty with internal bracing to other CMC arthroplasty procedures in terms of hand strength, upper extremity function, and patient quality of life.

Study Design: Prospective cohort study.

Methods: Quantitative data were collected from patients undergoing post-surgical hand therapy for CMC OA at an outpatient clinic. Data included grip strength, pinch strength, functional outcomes, quality of life, and demographics, collected at least six months post-surgery. Two cohorts were compared: one receiving
suspensionplasty with internal bracing, and one receiving other CMC arthroplasties.

Results: Thirty-nine participants (mean age 71.4; 56.4% female) were analyzed. Only psychological quality-of-life scores differed significantly between groups (p = 0.044). No other statistical differences were found in strength, function, or other quality-of-life domains.

Conclusion: Suspensionplasty with internal bracing offers comparable outcomes to other CMC arthroplasty procedures and shows potential for long-term benefits.

 

Biography

Dr. Holly Hussey is an instructor at Midwestern. She specializes in upper extremity rehabilitation. She has 11 years of experience as a hand therapist and has been a certified hand therapist for 8 years. She was the clinic director for Spooner Surprise from 2018-2025. Before becoming an occupational therapist, Dr.
Hussey was an elementary school teacher for 3 years.

 

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