Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Evan D. Collins recently launched one of the most significant joint reconstruction studies in years - producing results that will change the way physicians approach small joint arthroplasty. Utilizing a new implant and refined technique, Dr. Collins reduced the recovery time of patients undergoing joint reconstruction at the base of the thumb (CMC Arthroplasty) by over four months. The early mobilization facilitated by the reduced recovery enabled patients to return to daily tasks much sooner than previous procedures allowed."We're very excited about the results.  While we first work closely with patients to address their condition without surgery, we need to have viable solutions for those non-responsive to conservative treatment," said Dr. Collins, who is a member of the orthopedic team at The Methodist Hospital."

This IRB study is producing the results we've been looking for in small bone implants of the thumb - which previously required a 4-6 week immobilization and nearly 6-month recovery period.  This new technique will have tremendous benefit for patients suffering from chronic thumb and wrist pain," he added.The implant is a biodegradable implant developed from the biomaterials platform of a Swedish biomaterials and orthobiologics company.  It was designed to treat osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb, as well as other small bone and joint conditions.Dr. Collins' research focusing on both nonsurgical as well as surgical treatment options for conditions and injuries of the hand and upper extremity has gained worldwide attention. 

He was recently asked to present his research findings on degenerative conditions of the hand and wrist, at the XI Congress of the Federation of European Societies for Surgery of the Hand (FESSH) in Glasgow, Scotland - some of which was published in the Journal of Hand Surgery (British edition).   And he is scheduled to present additional research study results at the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) in Washington, D.C. September 7-9.

Prior to joining the faculty at The Methodist Hospital, Dr. Collins was the director of the Hand Fellowship and Chief of the Hand and Upper Extremity Section for many years at Baylor College of Medicine.  He is a member of the Harris County Medical Society, the Houston Orthopaedic Society, the Texas Society of Sports Medicine, the Texas Orthopaedic Association, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, the American Medical Association, the Western Orthopedic Association and the American College of Sports Medicine.

To learn more about the treatment options Dr. Collins provides, log onto www.drevancollins.com or call (713) 441-3534.###          

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Last Updated on Friday, 18 August 2006 23:29