Failure of artelon interposition arthroplasty after partial trapeziectomy: a case report with histologic and immunohistochemical analysis

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2015 Apr;44(4):E117-22.

Abstract

Artelon is a degradable biomaterial used for the treatment of osteoarthritis in the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. The device reportedly works through 2 modes of action-stabilization of the carpometacarpal joint by augmentation of the joint capsule and by formation of a new articular surface at the trapeziometacarpal interface. We present a patient with late failure of arthroscopic hemitrapeziectomy and Artelon interposition that required surgical excision of the Artelon implant and trapeziectomy 4 years postoperatively. Gross and histologic evaluation of the explanted Artelon implant and remaining trapezium revealed lack of articular resurfacing by hyaline ingrowth.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Absorbable Implants
  • Arthroplasty / methods*
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Carpometacarpal Joints / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteoarthritis / pathology
  • Osteoarthritis / surgery
  • Polyurethanes*
  • Thumb / pathology
  • Thumb / surgery
  • Trapezium Bone / pathology
  • Trapezium Bone / surgery*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polyurethanes
  • polyetherurethane urea