What is Thumb CMC Arthroplasty?
Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis affects the joint at the base of the thumb, often causing pain, weakness, and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as gripping, pinching, or opening jars.
Thumb CMC arthroplasty is the most common surgical treatment for thumb CMC arthritis. During the procedure, the arthritic bone at the base of the thumb, called the trapezium, is removed. Your surgeon then uses their preferred technique to support the thumb and maintain its function.
The goal of thumb CMC arthroplasty is to relieve pain while preserving useful thumb motion and function.
Thumb CMC Arthroplasty Procedure
Thumb CMC arthroplasty is performed to remove the arthritic trapezium at the base of the thumb.
Once the bone has been removed, your surgeon uses their preferred technique to support the thumb and maintain stability and function. Before surgery, your surgeon will explain the procedure, answer your questions, and discuss what to expect during recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is thumb CMC arthroplasty usually recommended?
Thumb CMC arthroplasty may be recommended when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief and thumb pain begins to interfere with daily activities or sleep.
What happens during thumb CMC arthroplasty?
During surgery, the arthritic trapezium at the base of the thumb is removed. Your surgeon then uses their preferred technique to support the thumb and preserve function.
How long is the thumb immobilized after surgery?
The thumb is typically immobilized for approximately six weeks following surgery.
Are there activity restrictions after surgery?
Yes. Patients should avoid pinching activities while the thumb is immobilized during the first six weeks of recovery.
When does hand therapy begin?
Hand therapy generally begins about six weeks after surgery to restore motion and gradually improve strength.
When can I return to normal activities?
Most patients return to regular activities approximately three months after surgery. Improvement may continue for up to one year.
What results can I expect from thumb CMC arthroplasty?
Thumb CMC arthroplasty is a predictable procedure for relieving pain caused by thumb CMC arthritis. Although it does not restore normal anatomy, many patients report that their thumb feels different after surgery but allows them to return to activities without pain.
Is Thumb CMC Arthroplasty Right for You?
Thumb CMC arthroplasty may be appropriate if thumb arthritis continues to limit your daily activities despite nonsurgical treatment.
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You may be a candidate when:
- Thumb pain interferes with everyday activities
- Symptoms disrupt sleep
- Conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief
- You are seeking long-term pain relief while maintaining thumb function
Your provider will determine whether surgery is appropriate based on your symptoms, activity level, and treatment goals.
Why Eugene Patients Trust Slocum for Thumb CMC Arthroplasty
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. As the region’s largest orthopedic practice, our board-certified surgeons provide advanced orthopedic care supported by on-site physical therapy, imaging, and a dedicated surgery center.
