Basal thumb arthritis. Issue 2 (April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garfjeld Roberts, Patrick; Riley, Nicholas
• Is Part Of: Orthopaedics and trauma. Volume 37:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 104
• Page End: 110
• Publication Date: 2023-04
• Subjects: arthritis -- carpometacarpal -- hand surgery -- thumb base -- trapeziectomy; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Traumatology -- Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mporth.2023.01.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1877-1327

Abstract

Abstract: The thumb is a key feature in the function of the human hand. Its evolutionary adaptations predispose it to degenerative change and thumb base osteoarthritis is a common presentation to primary and secondary care. Radiographic changes are recognized as a normal part of ageing, and it is important to distinguish radiographic from symptomatic thumb base osteoarthritis. The majority of patients can be managed non-operatively with a combination of oral and topical analgesia, physiotherapy, splintage, activity modification and injections. For failed non-operative management, the trapeziectomy (excision arthroplasty) is the commonest procedure and rates are rising, but a number of surgical options exist, and one must consider the patient's requirements and the involvement of the whole 'thumb column'.