A thumb fusion, also known as thumb arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure that permanently joins the bones in the thumb to eliminate motion and pain at a specific joint. This typically involves fusing the metacarpal bone (the long bone in the hand leading to the thumb) with the trapezium bone (a bone in the wrist).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Purpose: The primary goal of a thumb fusion is to relieve pain caused by arthritis or injury in the thumb joint. By eliminating motion, the painful grinding of bone on bone is stopped.
- Procedure: During the surgery, the cartilage between the bones is removed, and the bone surfaces are roughened. The bones are then held together with plates, screws, or pins until they heal and fuse into a single, solid bone.
- Ideal Candidates: Thumb fusion is often considered for younger, active individuals who need strong grip strength for their jobs or hobbies, such as carpenters, mechanics, or athletes. While it limits mobility, it provides significant pain relief and stability.
- Considerations: It's important to understand that a thumb fusion permanently restricts movement at the fused joint. This impacts the thumb's ability to move and grip in certain ways. However, other joints in the hand and wrist can compensate to some degree.
- Alternatives: Before considering fusion, other treatment options may be explored, including:
- Pain medication
- Splinting
- Corticosteroid injections
- Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)
