What is this trial studying for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis?

This trial is studying whether formal in-clinic occupational therapy or a home exercise program leads to better recovery after surgery for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis. Researchers want to understand which therapy approach improves hand function and is more cost-effective. The study is led by Julie Nuelle and aims to help patients choose the best post-surgery therapy option.

Who may be eligible for this thumb arthritis clinical trial?

Adults aged 18 years or older who are undergoing surgery for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis may be eligible. Participants must be able to read and write English and provide informed consent. People who have had previous revision CMC surgery or have acute joint dislocation are excluded. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this thumb arthritis clinical trial?

Study-related care, including the therapy and all trial visits, is provided at no cost. Personal travel or other expenses may vary and are not guaranteed to be covered. Participants should prepare for possible costs related to getting to and from appointments.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

ID06820528

Trapeziectomy and Suture Suspensionplasty for Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis - Is In-Clinic Therapy Needed?

Led by Julie Nuelle · Updated on 2026-06-05

180

Participants Needed

Research Sites

26 weeks

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how formal occupational therapy compares with home exercise programs for patients recovering from trapeziectomy and suture suspensionplasty surgery for thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis. The study aims to determine if in-clinic therapy offers better outcomes than at-home exercises and to analyze the associated costs of each approach, especially considering challenges faced by patients living in rural areas. This is a prospective, randomized, controlled trial designed to provide clear evidence regarding post-operative therapy options. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receives weekly in-clinic occupational therapy sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes for six weeks, while the other group is given instructions and a booklet for a home exercise program to perform daily at home with occasional physician check-ins during routine follow-ups. The study will compare these two treatment approaches in terms of their effect on recovery and cost differences, including preoperative, intra-operative, and postoperative expenses. Throughout the study, participants' progress will be assessed at multiple time points up to one year after surgery using measures such as the Kapandji Score, radial abduction range, key pinch strength, grip strength, and PROMIS questionnaires on upper extremity function and overall health. The study includes scheduled evaluations at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year to monitor recovery and function. This comprehensive follow-up ensures detailed tracking of participant outcomes and therapy effectiveness.