Thumb Arthroplasty
Thumb arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the treatment of arthritis affecting the joint at the base of the thumb. The carpometacarpal joint, located at the base, allows the thumb a wide range of motion, such as up, down, and across the palm. In addition, this joint enables the ability to pinch with the help of other fingers.
Thumb arthritis is a kind of osteoarthritis that occurs at the carpometacarpal joint, which is located at the base of the thumb. Therefore, the arthroplasty procedure helps to regain mobility and function of the thumb. Typically, thumb arthritis cannot be treated through non-surgical treatments. Arthritis is a condition that initially causes symptoms like pain, swelling, or loss of function, but it may worsen over time if non-surgical options fail to relieve pain. As a result, thumb arthroplasty is needed.
Understand the procedure of thumb arthroplasty
Thumb carpometacarpal arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves removing the small wrist bone that is part of the joint and replacing it with a wrist flexor tendon. Firstly, a small incision is made during the surgery, specifically over the carpometacarpal joint, and then the wrist bone called the trapezium is removed.
Next, another small incision is made in the forearm to release a wrist flexor tendon. Initially, this tendon is connected to the base of the thumb metacarpal bone with a bone anchor. Afterward, the remaining tendon is rolled into a ball and placed into the void left by the trapezium. This process introduces a cushion between the remaining bones.
Finally, the incisions are closed with stitches, and the hand is dressed and casted to immobilize the wrist and part of the thumb.
Common complications of thumb arthroplasty
Some of the complications with thumb arthroplasty include
- Infection
- Side effects of anesthesia
- Sensitivity around scar tissue
- Injuries to surrounding tendons
- Injuries to nerve or ligaments
- Unable to move the thumb normal
Cost of thumb arthroplasty surgery in India
The cost of thumb arthroplasty surgery in India is relatively affordable and less expensive than in other countries. This lower cost of medical treatment in India can be varied due to several factors, including lower labor costs, affordable healthcare facilities, and a larger pool of skilled medical professionals. Additionally, the highly competitive healthcare market in India helps to keep prices lower, while still maintaining high-quality care.
Some of the key factors affecting the cost include the type of surgery, length of hospital stay, quality of stay, the expertise of the surgeon, and other related aspects.
Summary
Thumb arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the treatment of arthritis affecting the joint at the base of the thumb.
Thumb arthritis is a kind of osteoarthritis that occurs at the carpometacarpal joint, which is located at the base of the thumb. Therefore, the arthroplasty procedure helps to regain mobility and function of the thumb.
