Where can I find more information concerning the surgical procedure?

What is the longest patient history with the Artelon® CMC Spacer?

The first patients were treated in 1999 and included in a pilot study at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden  The result has been published in the Journal of Hand Surgery, USA. See Selected publications>>
Artelon® CMC Spacer was released for sales in the EU August 2003 and in the USA September 2004.

How long is the immobilization period having received an Artelon® CMC Spacer implant? When does the cast/splint/bandage come off?

The plaster cast is worn for 5-6 weeks, with a recommended change of the cast after 2-3 weeks when the IP joint of the thumb is released from the cast. Immobilization 5-6 weeks is critical to ensure good clinical outcome. Once the cast is removed, the wings of the CMC Spacer will provide stabilization to the joint, however this stabilization can often give the patient the false feeling of complete stability which does not yet exist.

When can patients begin using their thumb?

Patients can begin using their thumb following removal of the plaster cast. In order to protect and stabilize the thumb and hand during the initial period, a splint may also be utilized. Since the joint capsule will require a full 12 weeks to heal, additional external stabilization during that period can be valuable in order to help decrease pain which is not uncommon in the initial stages.

Patients should be advised to avoid movements and loadings over the CMC-I joint during the first twelve weeks following surgery. Especially important to avoid are activities that involve vibration, punching or fast, uncontrolled movements of the thumb.

Do you have any recommendation for the rehabilitation and for the physical therapy regimen?

Following the removal of the plaster cast, a training program can be initiated with the aim to improve mobility, minimize the risk of swelling and reactivate the muscles.

Once the plaster is removed after 5-6 weeks pain, functionality and common sense should settle what the patient can and is allowed to do. However, full weight-bearing is not allowed until earliest after about 12 weeks of rehabilitation.

During the first period when the plaster has been taken off, the rehabilitation mainly consists of movement training without loading. Taping or brace should be used at heavier work with the hand.

The patient’s status at each follow-up visit decides how the training continues. Many clinics have long experience and good results from using rubber-bands, clay and soft rubber balls in their training programmes. The patient should in a controlled way learn to use the hand doing things he or she wants to or needs to do with respect to hobbies, gentle work and daily activities.

How is the implant fixated?

The implant is fixed with non-absorbable sutures or titanium screws.

How is the Artelon® CMC Spacer sterilized and can it be re-sterilized?

The Artelon® CMC Spacer is provided sterile and shall not be re-sterilized.

Where can I buy the Artelon® CMC Spacer?

See Contact us>>