Joint Replacement for Base of Thumb Arthritis

Send us Fan MailThumb Arthritis: The Game Changing Joint ReplacementThumb arthritis is extremely common, and when pain at the base of the thumb makes it difficult to open a jar, turn a key, grip a golf club, or hold everyday objects, it can have a major impact on daily life.In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Avi Giladi, hand and upper-extremity surgeon and research director at the Curtis National Hand Center, about the latest advances in treating thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis.For decades, surgery has typically involved removing the trapezium bone, sometimes combined with tendon reconstruction or suspension. While these procedures can provide pain relief, recovery can be lengthy, and some patients experience lasting limitations in grip strength and function.Dr. Giladi discusses a newer option: the Touch Prosthesis, a thumb joint replacement designed to preserve joint height and motion while providing stability. He explains how the implant works, who may be a candidate, how it compares with traditional surgery, and what patients can expect during recovery.The conversation covers:• Why thumb arthritis is so common• Early symptoms and risk factors• Non-surgical treatment options, including splints, therapy and injections• Traditional thumb arthritis surgery and its recovery• How the Touch prosthesis works• Potential benefits, risks and limitations of thumb joint replacement• Who may—and may not—be a candidate• What recovery can look like after surgery• What researchers and surgeons still need to learn about the implant long termDr. Giladi emphasizes that not everyone with thumb arthritis needs surgery, and that treatment should be individualized. But for appropriately selected patients whose symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments, newer joint-replacement technology may offer another path toward restoring motion, strength and function.Learn More or Schedule an Appointment: For more information about MedStar Health’s Curtis National Hand Center, visit MedStarHealth.org and search “Curtis.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Avi Giladi or one of the center’s 14 hand surgeons, call 410-235-5405. If you’re closer to Washington, DC, call 202-444-3668 to schedule an appointment with hand surgeon Dr. Michael Kessler at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.Watch the full episode to learn what patients considering thumb arthritis surgery should know.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.