Degenerative Conditions in Everett, Washington

Carpometacarpal Joint (CMC) Arthroplasty

This procedure is often performed to relieve pain at the wrist, near the base of the thumb. When pain due to degenerative osteoarthritis occurs in this area, reconstruction and/or resurfacing of the CMC joint may help to relieve symptoms.

What to expect: During the office consultation you will discuss all aspects of the procedure with your surgeon in order to establish a thorough and well-informed plan. Your procedure will begin after consulting with your surgeon and your anesthesiologist or anesthetist about the anesthesia that is safest for you. Typical incisions are placed near the base of the thumb at the wrist.

The recovery: Your postoperative course is monitored by your surgeon and the staff. There is a 2 to 4 week period of splinting which holds the thumb in a safe, healing position. This is often followed by hand therapy. Local anesthetic and pain medication are often used to manage any discomfort you might have after the operation.

Some of the unlikely complications: Rarely, the nerves can be damaged. Recurrence or persistence of pain, bleeding or infection are also unusual, but possible complications.