Thumb CMC Arthroplasty - Thumb Joint Reconstruction
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Introduction
Anatomy
The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint forms where the ends of the metacarpal bone at the base of the thumb and the trapezium Bone in the wrist meet. This is also called the basal joint. Smooth cartilage covers the ends of the metacarpal bone and trapezium bone. The cartilage allows the bones to glide easily during motion. Strong ligaments and muscles hold the CMC joint in position and provide stability.Causes
The most common cause of CMC joint breakdown is arthritis. It is more common in women after the age of 40. In particular, osteoarthritis can result from “wear and tear” at the joint. Osteoarthritis can cause the smooth cartilage to become rough. When this happens, the bones do not glide easily and moving the thumb may be difficult. In extreme cases, the protective cartilage padding at the ends of the bones may wear away. When the deteriorated joint moves, bone rubs upon bone causing pain, swelling, limited motion, and frequently causing a grinding or popping sensation.Symptoms
Diagnosis
Your doctor can diagnose arthritis and CMC joint deterioration by evaluating symptoms. Your physician will conduct a physical examination including examination of your hand and review of your activities, pain patterns, and history of the problem. Your doctor will order an X-ray to see the condition of your bones. When taking an X-ray, a camera focuses on your thumb area and takes a picture. The procedure is painless and simply requires that you remain very still.Surgery
There are several options for the surgical treatment for arthritis of the thumb CMC joint. One type of surgery, called CMC Arthroplasty, involves reconstructing the joint. The surgery may be done as an outpatient procedure or may require an overnight stay at the hospital. The individual may be sedated for surgery or remain alert with anesthesia that temporarily blocks the feeling in the hand.
The surgeon has a few options for replacing the joint. The most common procedures involve stabilizing the metacarpal and using one's own tendon tissue as a joint spacer. In one procedure, the ends of the bones are fitted with a prosthetic implant. The surgeon makes an incision at the base of the thumb and carefully opens joint. The surgeon removes damage on the end of either bone, revealing new smooth surfaces. If using an implant with a stem attachment, the surgeon will create a small hole in the bone for placement. Finally, the new joint is reinforced using nearby tendons.
In another joint replacement procedure, a small ceramic ball is placed between the ends of the bones to form a new joint. This is called Spherical Implant Surgery. The surgeon removes the ends of the bones and creates an area for the ball to fit snuggly in the joint. The ball implant allows the bones to glide smoothly.
Following surgery, the thumb is padded and a splint is applied to promote healing. You may experience some discomfort and swelling. Your doctor will recommend some pain medication to help. Keeping the hand elevated above your heart can also help relieve the symptoms. You can do this by placing your hand up on a stack of pillows while you are sitting or sleeping.
Treatment
In the early stages, arthritis at the base of the thumb may respond to non-surgical treatments involving pain relief and rest. These early treatments generally include medications, cortisone injections and splinting. Therapists can provide you with splints to wear to help you perform activities that involve your hand. However, because arthritis is a degenerative and progressive disease, it may get worse over time for some individuals. When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, surgery may be recommended.
Following surgery, therapy is recommended for further casting or splinting. Initially, your hand may feel stiff or sore from being immobilized. Your therapist will help you move your joints to improve your circulation, reduce swelling, and ease discomfort. The therapist will work to help you regain motion, strength, and coordination at the CMC Joint and all joints of your thumb. The goal of hand therapy is to optimize the functional use of your hand.
Recovery
Full recovery from CMC Arthroplasty will take several months. Joint reconstruction usually requires a period of immobilization followed by therapy. Recovery typically takes up to three months for the prosthetic implant surgery. The casting period is longer as well. Recovery does not take as long for the Spherical Implant Surgery. Individuals can return to full activity after three to five weeks. Most commonly, patients continue to improve for many months after surgery. With either surgery method, most individuals achieve good results and are able to use their thumbs with little or no pain.
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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.
