Base of Thumb Joint Replacement

Modern Surgery at Sozo Clinic to Restore Thumb Strength, Length & Function

Thumb base arthritis can be life-altering – even simple tasks like writing, opening jars, or turning a key become painful. While trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction (LRTI) has been the traditional approach for years, modern joint replacement surgery is now raising the standard of care – and at Sozo Clinic, we believe patients deserve nothing less.

At Sozo Clinic, we believe in doing things properly – that means no compromises, no shortcuts, and only working with surgeons who meet national GIRFT standards (Get It Right First Time). You’ll be under the care of high-volume consultant hand surgeons working within a structured governance framework, ensuring optimal outcomes and patient safety.

The Problem with Traditional Surgery (Trapeziectomy & LRTI)

For decades, surgeons have removed the trapezium bone (trapeziectomy) and used tendon tissue to stabilise the area (LRTI). While this can reduce pain and is definitely still an option for many, it often comes at the cost of:

• Thumb shortening
• Reduced strength for grip and pinch
• Ongoing instability or collapse at the base
• Delayed recovery and variable long-term results

In short, these procedures relieve pain but may not restore normal thumb function – especially in active individuals.

Why Joint Replacement Is Different – and Better

Modern thumb joint replacements aim to preserve the natural structure of the hand. By replacing the arthritic joint with a smooth, low-friction implant, we can restore:

✔️ Thumb length and alignment
✔️ Pinch strength and functional grip
✔️ Range of motion with long-term stability
✔️ A more natural feel compared to joint removal

These benefits are particularly important for people who rely on fine motor skills — whether that’s holding a pen, using tools, or even typing.

Base of Thumb (CMCJ) Replacement Surgery at Sozo

At Sozo Clinic, base of thumb joint replacement is carried out by expert hand surgeons using a minimally invasive dorsal (back of the thumb) approach. This means the incision is made over the back of the thumb rather than the palm, allowing for:

• Better access to the joint
• Precise implant placement
• Minimal disruption to surrounding tissues
• Ability to use the thumb from the outset

You’ll have the procedure under a local or regional anaesthetic, meaning your arm will be numb but you’ll remain awake — avoiding the need for a general anaesthetic. Best of all, this is usually a same-day (outpatient) procedure, so you can return home within 30 minutes of the procedure… normally after our customary Sozo Tea & Toast!

After Surgery

• All your stitches are normally buried so no need to come back for those to be removed
• Your thumb will be protected in a splint for a few weeks
• Gentle hand range of movement will follow to restore movement and strength
• Most patients return to daily activities within 6–8 weeks
• Most patients can do their own rehab, but we may refer you to our SozoRehab Partners

With modern techniques and expert care, joint replacement offers excellent outcomes – often with less pain, faster recovery, and better function than older methods.

Trusted Implants: Touch® and Maia®

At Sozo, we only work with trusted GIRFT-aligned hand surgeons. We also believe that implants should be “proven” in terms of their safety, survival and outcomes. Two of the most advanced implants for base of thumb replacement include:

Touch®
• One of the most widely used implants in Europe
• Dual mobility design allows natural movement with reduced wear
• Ideal for restoring thumb strength and function, even in younger patients

Maia® Implant
• Designed for maximum range of motion
• Optimised for stability in higher-demand patients
• Proven track record for durability and pain relief

Both implants are engineered to replicate the biomechanics of a healthy thumb, offering patients the best chance of returning to pain-free, everyday function.

Xray alongside the actual implant we use to replace the base of thumb joint
Photo of Mr Bhat in the Sozo Clinic Scrubs
Mr Waseem Bhat - Consultant Hand Surgeon
Expert Private Healthcare

Why Choose Sozo Clinic Leeds?

  • We partner only with governance-led, high-volume, local surgeons
  • Every patient is treated under a consultant-led, evidence-based framework
  • We reject one-size-fits-all surgery: your hand, your function, your outcome
  • We support you from consultation through to rehab with transparent, honest care

At Sozo Clinic, we believe that patients shouldn’t have to chase quality care – it should come to them. When you need help, you shouldn’t have to break through the many barriers that healthcare systems build around the clinicians. Sozo clinicians are always accessible for you and your care!

Risks & Complications

While rare, these may include:

Infection

This occurs in less than 1% of surgeries.
– Mild infections (skin only) can usually be treated with antibiotics.
– Deeper infections affecting the joint may require further surgery and a hospital stay for intravenous antibiotics.
We take every precaution to minimise this risk, including strict sterile protocols and clean air minor op theatres

Swelling, Stiffness & Scar Tenderness

After surgery, it’s common to have some swelling and sensitivity around the scar.
• Keeping your hand elevated and gently moving your fingers and wrist helps.
• Scar massage with an unperfumed moisturiser can improve tenderness and flatten the scar.
• These symptoms usually settle over a few months.

Implant Loosening or Failure

Like all joint replacements, thumb implants may loosen or become unstable over time.
• You’ll be advised to avoid heavy lifting for at least 3 months after surgery to allow the bone to bond with the implant properly.
• If loosening or dislocation does occur later, revision surgery may be required.
• We use modern implants, specifically designed to reduce these risks with over 95% lasting 7 years or more.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

A rare complication where the hand becomes more painful, swollen or stiff than expected. It usually improves with specialist hand therapy, but in rare cases, may lead to lasting symptoms.

Numbness

You may notice a small area of numbness around the scar or along the thumb. This usually improves over time and does not affect hand function.

Fracture

During surgery, the trapezium bone (where the socket is placed) can occasionally fracture.
• If this happens, the surgeon may need to change to a different procedure, such as a trapeziectomy.
• Fracture of the thumb metacarpal bone is rare.

Struggling with Base of Thumb Arthritis? Let’s get your grip back. Book a consultation today.

You don’t have to live with thumb pain. Sozo Clinic offers fast access to trusted care that blends surgical expertise with a deeply patient-centred approach.

Patient rubbing the base of their left thumb indicating pain prior to base of thumb replacement