Intra-articular corticosteroid injections to manage trapeziometacarpal XXXX -a systematic review.

@entity2720 @entity571 @entity158 @entity479
BACKGROUND: @entity571 of the @entity2720 ( @entity2720 ) is a common condition causing significant disability. The aim of this study is to ascertain whether an intra-articular corticosteroid injection leads to @entity158 relief and increased function and what is the duration and magnitude of this effect. METHODS: A systematic review with a critical appraisal of identified studies that met the inclusion criteria was performed. Two authors performed the literature review by independently searching the Cochrane, PubMed and Google Scholar databases. RESULTS: A total of 118 relevant articles were found, but only nine studies met the inclusion criteria which included 4 double-blinded randomised control trials (RCTs) and 5 prospective case series. There is some evidence in the literature to support the efficacy of @entity479 injections into the @entity2720 . Most studies do suggest a good short-term benefit. However, one identifies no benefit over placebo but two studies found a benefit lasting at least 6  months. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that there are potentially significant although short-term benefits to be gained from @entity479 injections into the @entity2720 . They can lead to @entity158 relief and improved function, certainly in the first 1 to 3  months post-injection. @entity479 injections are a low-risk procedure and are helpful in delaying or avoiding the need for surgery.
