Trapeziectomy
(Base of Thumb Arthritis)
Relieve pain. Regain control. Restore your lifestyle.
Symptoms of Base of Thumb Arthritis
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
If you’re experiencing significant joint pain in the thumb, there are several non-surgical treatments available to help relieve discomfort and improve function.
Medications
Your clinician may recommend the following:
- Topical Treatments applied directly to the skin over the affected joint
- Capsaicin cream – reduces pain by interfering with pain signals
- Diclofenac gel – an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce swelling and ease discomfort
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
- Paracetamol – suitable for mild pain
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as ibuprofen which helps relieve both pain and inflammation
- Prescription Medications
- Celecoxib – a prescription NSAID for more persistent pain
- Tramadol – a stronger option that may be used short-term for more severe symptoms
Splinting
A splint helps support your joint and limit movement. It does not cure the problem but reduces the symptoms of the arthritis. You may be advised to wear a splint either just at night only to promote healing during rest, or throughout the day and night for more advanced pain or instability. The benefits of splinting include
- Reducing strain on the joint
- Promoting better alignment during daily tasks
- Providing rest and support to aid healing
Injections
If medications and splinting do not provide sufficient relief, injections may be recommended. These injections deliver anti-inflammatory, lubricating or regenerative medication directly into the affected joint, helping to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Provide temporary but significant pain relief
- Delay the need for more invasive treatments
- Promote recovery
Trapeziectomy Surgery at Sozo
If non-operative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended. This aims to remove the trapezium bone to get rid of the arthritis pain. This is performed through a small incision either on the front or the back of the thumb. In the gap that is lift behind by removing the bone, a part of one of your tendons is placed to provide a cushion for movement. Sometimes that same tendon is used to reconstruct the ligament at the base of the thumb to improve the stability of the thumb.
What to expect after your operation
- Stitches that are usually buried under the skin
- A plaster cast and bandage which must be worn for the first 2 weeks
- At 2 weeks, the scar will be uncovered and the cast switched for a lighter splint.
- Swelling is normal and should reduce over time. Elevating your hand above your heart can reduce this.
- Some pain for a number of weeks is also normal.
- You will need to do some exercises in order to regain the movement of your thumb.
- It usually takes approximately 12 weeks after surgery to recover.
