Comprehensive assessment of clinical outcome and quality of life after resection interposition arthroplasty of the thumb saddle joint

Objective. To explore the biometric and psychometric properties of clinical, generic, and condition-specific instruments and to assess quantitatively the outcome after resection interposition arthroplasty (RIAP) of the thumb saddle joint. Methods. One hundred three patients requiring 112 arthroplasties were assessed in a 4.5-7.7-year cross-sectional catamnesis by means of 4 widely used questionnaires and clinical and radiographic examinations. Results. In all dimensions of the Short Form 36 (SF-36), the outcome was equal or significantly better than expected by the norm. The Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH) revealed some small, mainly functional limitations (mean score 78.4, norm 86.4). The SF-36, the DASH, and the Patient Related Wrist Evaluation form (PRWE) correlated highly and loaded on the same factor. The Hand Function Index was independent of the clinical measurements (range of motion, strength, etc. on the specially designed Custom Form) and of the self rating. Conclusion. Long-term followup of 112 RIAP patients showed excellent health and quality of life. A questionnaire set consisting of the SF-36, the DASH (or alternatively the short PRWE), and the Custom Form is proposed for the comprehensive and specific assessment of thumb joint conditions.