Replacement of the trapezium with a silicone elastomer universal small joint spacer.

31 patients have been received between one and five years (average 2 3/4 years) after replacement of the trapezium with a silicone elastomer universal small joint spacer for carpo-metacarpal arthritis. Good pain relief was achieved in 84% and most patients retained 80% of power and movement compared to the other hand. Two prostheses fractured and two more subluxed painfully; another two were too big, causing pain, and had to be removed. Minor damage to the radial nerve occurred in four patients.