Thumb-base arthritis reconstruction · hand surgery Manchester
Thumb CMC Arthroplasty in Manchester
Surgery for painful thumb-base arthritis, commonly involving removal of the arthritic trapezium and stabilisation or reconstruction of the thumb metacarpal.
Diagnosis first Confirm the targetAlternatives compared Surgery is not automaticRecovery planned Protection and rehabilitation
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Arthritis & reconstructionThumb CMC Arthroplasty
What the procedure treats
A precise procedure needs a precise diagnosis.
Surgery for painful thumb-base arthritis, commonly involving removal of the arthritic trapezium and stabilisation or reconstruction of the thumb metacarpal.
ImportantThis guide explains a general surgical pathway. The exact technique and whether it is offered in a particular clinic or hospital require confirmation with Dr. Arshad.
Common treatment targets
- Severe thumb-base pain
- Loss of pinch and grip from CMC arthritis
- Symptoms that persist despite splinting, injections and activity changes
When surgery may be considered
Move from symptoms to a reasoned decision.
Surgery should have a clear target, a realistic expected benefit and a recovery plan that fits the patient.
Decision frameworkSymptoms → Examination → Tests → Options
- 01Pain and functional loss remain substantial
- 02X-rays and examination confirm thumb CMC arthritis
- 03The patient understands the longer rehabilitation
Alternatives and preparation
Compare what can be tried before surgery.
Some conditions need urgent repair; others allow time to compare protection, therapy, injection, observation or a different operation.
Medication, injection and hand therapy
Activity and equipment modification
Bring to consultationScans · nerve tests · medication list · prior injections · therapy reports · work and sport goals
Plan your assessment ↗Inside the procedure
Thumb CMC Arthroplasty: the key stages.
The operative details vary, but the purpose and protection strategy should be clear before surgery.
The arthritic trapezium is removed or the joint is otherwise reconstructed.
The thumb metacarpal may be stabilised using tendon or another technique.
A splint or cast protects the reconstruction.
Anaesthetic and procedure day
A clear plan from arrival to discharge.
Local, regional or general anaesthesia may be used. Many hand procedures do not require an overnight stay, but complexity, injury and health factors can change the plan.
Before
Medication, fasting and transport instructions.
During
Anaesthesia, positioning and the agreed procedure.
After
Dressings, pain control, splinting and warning signs.
Recovery pathway
Protect healing, restore movement, then rebuild load.
These are stages, not promises of a fixed date. The surgeon and hand therapist adjust progression to the repair and response.
Initial immobilisation
Progressive thumb movement
Pinch and grip strengthening later
Recovery continues over several months
Recovery questions to answerWound care · swelling · splint · therapy · work · driving · gym · sport · travel
Benefits, limits and risks
Make an informed choice—not a rushed one.
The risk profile depends on the diagnosis, procedure, health and previous treatment. Dr. Arshad will discuss the risks that matter for your case.
Possible considerations
- Weakness or persistent pain
- Stiffness or thumb shortening
- Nerve irritation
- Instability or need for further surgery
4.96/555 verified reviewsWhy consult Dr. Arshad
Specialist hand and wrist assessment before committing to surgery.
Fellowship-trained consultant orthopaedic hand and wrist surgeon, UK specialist training, more than 17 years in orthopaedic surgery, with consultations in Manchester and across the UK, and at Healthpoint Abu Dhabi.
Confirm the diagnosisCompare surgical and non-surgical optionsPlan rehabilitation around work and function
Meet Dr. Arshad ↗Related procedure guides
Explore the same treatment family.
Related procedures may treat a different anatomical level or a different stage of the same problem.
Questions patients ask
Thumb CMC Arthroplasty FAQs.
General guidance only. The final procedure, hospital setting and recovery plan require individual clinical assessment.
Why might thumb cmc arthroplasty be recommended?+
It may be discussed when the diagnosis is clear, symptoms or structural damage remain significant, and the expected benefit is greater than suitable alternatives.
What anaesthetic is used?+
Local, regional or general anaesthesia may be used depending on the procedure, patient health, preference and hospital setting. The exact plan is confirmed before surgery.
Will I go home the same day?+
Many hand and wrist procedures are performed without an overnight stay, but this is not universal. Injury complexity, anaesthetic and health factors can change the plan.
How long is recovery?+
Wound healing, tissue healing, movement, strength and nerve recovery occur on different timelines. Your procedure-specific restrictions and goals determine the plan.
Could symptoms remain after surgery?+
Yes. Longstanding nerve or joint damage, stiffness, scar sensitivity, incomplete healing or another pain source can limit recovery. Expectations should be discussed before surgery.
Patient education referenceAAOS: Thumb CMC Arthroplasty
View source ↗Hand surgery Manchester · UK & UK availability
Need to know whether thumb cmc arthroplasty is right for you?
Book a specialist consultation and bring previous reports, scans, nerve tests and treatment information.