Finite element analysis: study of better osteotomy angle of the first metacarpal for thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis

This study examines the impact of metacarpal osteotomy at varying directions and angles. Using hand CT-DICOM data from fresh frozen cadavers, 3D models were created and analyzed with finite element analysis. Stress changes across various osteotomy directions and angles were compared. The findings indicate that a 30° extension and 30° abduction-opposition osteotomy significantly shift pressure distribution toward the volar side, which may reduce stress and enhance joint congruity.