What is thumb interposition arthroplasty?
Thumb interposition is an accepted technique for the treatment of stage 2-4 arthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint of the thumb. With the usage of the Weilby suspension technique, the flexor carpi radialis is used to suspend the thumb metacarpal using an intertendinous weave rather than bony tunnels.
How long is pain after thumb arthroplasty?
The first 6 weeks are tough with pain, weakness, and stiffness in the thumb. Most patients have minimal pain by 3 months after surgery. Your symptoms will continue to improve with improvements in ability to do more activities every 3 months.
Which tendon is used for CMC arthroplasty?
Description of Technique The thumb CMC joint arthroplasty is performed using an FCR tendon for ligament reconstruction combined with removal of the distal half of the trapezium, which is replaced with a life preserver-shaped spacer that is carved out of allograft cartilage.
How long does it take to recover from CMC surgery?
Recovering the early movement takes six to eight weeks, but increasing the strength of the thumb pinch can take six months. After surgery, your hand will be painful. Take pain relief medication for the first 48 hours and thereafter, as necessary.
What is tendon interposition arthroplasty?
LRTI (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition) is a surgical procedure that is most commonly conducted to treat thumb CMC (carpometacarpal) arthritis where the damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with a cushion of tissue that keeps the bones separated.
How successful is thumb joint replacement?
Ruch, LRTI has a 96 percent success rate. “Most patients achieve complete pain relief and mobility equal to that of a healthy thumb, with results lasting at least 15 to 20 years,” he says.
How successful is thumb joint replacement surgery?
How long does it take to recover from a thumb joint replacement?
In a traditional thumb joint reconstruction, the surgeon removes the trapezium — the small bone that connects the thumb to the wrist — then harvests a piece of tendon from the patient and implants it between the thumb and wrist to serve as a spacer. Patients often need three months to fully recover.
What is the CMC joint of the thumb?
The carpometacarpal (CMC) of the thumb is a saddle joint that permits a wide range of motion and is largely responsible for the characteristic dexterity of human prehension. This joint, located at the very base of the thumb, is subject to large physical stresses throughout life.
Is CMC surgery painful?
You will generally have no pain, and the numbing medication usually lasts about 8 or more hours, so you will leave the surgery center with no pain.
How long does a thumb joint replacement last?
“Most patients achieve complete pain relief and mobility equal to that of a healthy thumb, with results lasting at least 15 to 20 years,” he says.