@ras65 I too read the reviews about the tightrope potentially snapping. However, in my (mostly older) groups of gardeners and seamstresses, there have been many repaired CMC joints, and those who have the tightrope have been quite satisfied with it. I knew Stablyx wasn't for me after my own negative experiences with metal poisoning from chromium cobalt hip implants and complications suffered by two friends. I also knew the "tendon harvest" method carried a longer recovery time than I was willing to deal with. The hand surgeon who uses the tightrope was highly recommended by my ortho, whom I respect greatly.
I have dealt with the possible "fragility" of the repair by wearing a brace when I do heavy work (I do my own gardening and landscaping, including stonework, removing shrubs, etc.) This predated the surgery because I have also had a carpectomy, which affected the strength and stability of the wrist as well. So far, so good.
Good luck deciding on your next step, I hope there is a solution to the pain you are dealing with.
Sue