Abstract

The ligamentous reconstruction according to Eaton and Littler (7) was designed to restore the stability of the carpometa-carpal joint of the thumb. We evaluated the patients' satisfaction after an Eaton and Littler-procedure as well as possible risk factors in the development of thumb basal joint instability. A retrospective chart review and clinical assessment or telephone survey are executed in 33 patients, with a mean follow-up of 7 years. Only 45% of the patients were satisfied. Within the group of clinical assessed patients, there were significant differences in thumb function comparing operated with not operated side. Overall joint hypermobility can be a contributing factor for this thumb basal joint instability, but has no effect on the outcome after an Eaton-Littler procedure.