Basilar Joint Arthritis
Surgery removes the arthritic wrist bone and the thumb is stabilized with a tendon. Surgery is an outpatient procedure and performed with general anesthetic, and takes 60-90 minutes.
Risk of Surgery
- Delayed incision with sutures
- Stiffness or weakness of grip
- Numbness or sensitivity of the scar
- Infection or excessive bleeding
- Sensory nerve injury
What to Expect After Surgery
- Incision with sutures
- A splint will be applied at surgery to immobilize the thumb
- Tenderness is common after surgery
- Move all the fingers not in the splint
- Swelling/bruising of the hand & forearm in common
First Post-Operative Office Check
- 10-14 days after surgery
- All dressings and sutures removed
- Thumb splint or cast immobilization for 4-6 weeks (this immobilization period is the most critical aspect of the surgical treatment)
- A rehabilitation program after immobilization period, often involving a occupational therapist, help you regain movement and strength