Hand arthritis is one of the most prevalent and debilitating
disorders primarily effecting adults and it is the number
one reason for loss of work time. Arthritis can
affect any of the joints in the hand. Treatment
is aimed at minimizing activity which promotes the development
of arthritis and medicines that improve arthritis and
decrease pain. Ultimately, after failing conservative
treatment, surgical procedures that revolve around joint
replacement or joint fusion are employed.
Basilar Joint Arthritis of the Thumb
Basilar joint arthritis of the thumb refers to arthritis between
the thumb metacarpal and the wrist bones. Symptoms include
pain at the base of the thumb, difficulty opening large jars
or turning door handles. After conservative therapy has
been exhausted, a trapeziectomy with ligamentous arthroplasty
is the treatment of choice for this disorder. This involves
removal of the Basilar joint with suspension of the thumb metacarpal
to the second metacarpal using the flexor carpi radialis tendon
with ligamentous arthroplasty.
Recovery time:
Recovery time is approximately six to twelve weeks with return
to full duty at three months.
I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have or schedule an appointment for you.
