Weilby-Burton arthroplasty of the trapeziometacarpal joint of the thumb

Twenty-three patients (25 thumbs) were treated by tendon interposition arth roplasty for trapeziometacarpal arthrosis as described by Weilby and modifi ed slightly as described by Burton and Pellegrini. There was good (4/25, 16 %) or complete (19/25, 76%) pain relief in 23 (92%) of the cases. Activitie s of daily living were generally easier. Mobility and strength of the thumb were satisfactory. One patient had signs of instability during a stress te st. We conclude that our technique produces a stable and pain-free thumb jo int. However, careful selection of the patients for this procedure is essen tial, and the patient must be given comprehensive information about all sta ges.