How long does it take to recover from basal thumb surgery?
Recovery and healing typically take at least 4 weeks in a cast (except when bathing). The thumb and hand will feel numb and sore at times, gradually improving as healing progresses.
Is basal thumb surgery painful?
Because of the smaller incisions, there is only mild surgical pain, and many patients only require oral pain medicine for the first few days after surgery. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, stability of the thumb base is maintained and additional incisions for using your own tendon are not needed.
What can I expect after thumb arthritis surgery?
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. Patient usually have good strength and motion at 6 months, and continue to improve for up to 1 year after surgery.
Is basal thumb surgery successful?
Pros: Removing the entire trapezium eliminates the possibility of arthritis returning and, according to Dr. 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 long after thumb surgery can I drive?
This varies in severity and is treated with therapy. You can return to driving when you feel you can control the vehicle safely. This is usually 6-12 weeks after surgery. You can return to work when you feel that you have enough strength and control to carry out your job.
How long are you out of work after basal joint surgery?
Three to 4 weeks after the procedure, the cast is removed and active range-of-motion therapy begins. Strengthening begins around 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. The majority of patients return to most activities by 3 months after surgery. Full recovery of normal activities may require up to 6 months.
How long does a Trapeziectomy operation take?
The operation usually takes an hour to 90 minutes. Your surgeon will make a small cut on the back of your hand at the base of your thumb, and remove the trapezium.
What is basal thumb surgery called?
Basal joint reconstruction surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a procedure for people with advanced “wear and tear” arthritis in the basal joint of their thumb that has not improved with nonsurgical approaches.
How do you fix basal arthritis?
Treatment of basal joint arthritis
- Self-help. Try to avoid clenching your hands when you carry things, as this can aggravate symptoms.
- Medications. Try an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medication.
- Splints.
- Surgery.