What can I expect after thumb arthritis surgery?
Three to 4 weeks after the procedure, the cast is removed and active range-of-motion therapy begins. Strengthening begins around 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. The majority of patients return to most activities by 3 months after surgery. Full recovery of normal activities may require up to 6 months.
How is CMC surgery done?
Surgical procedure Your surgeon makes an incision down the back of the thumb to the wrist exposing the CMC joint with care taken to avoid damage to adjacent nerves. The carpometacarpal joint is exposed and the capsule is opened. The trapezium bone is identified and excised completely or partially.
Do you wear a cast after thumb surgery?
Yes. You will likely be in a cast for 2-4 weeks. You will also use either a removable orthosis a hand therapist will custom make for you or an off-the-shelf thumb and wrist splint for a month after the cast has been removed.
How long does CMC joint take to heal?
After one month, the patient may start using the hand for daily functions protected in a hand based CMC splint. This is followed by rehabilitation exercises initially to control pain and swelling and later to restore strength and movement. You can resume your daily activities in 3 to 6 months.
How do you reduce swelling after thumb surgery?
An ice pack applied directly to your post-operative dressing will reduce swelling and inflammation at the surgical site. Ice can be particularly helpful for the first three days after surgery.
What to expect after thumb CMC arthroplasty?
What to Expect After Thumb CMC Arthroplasty. Cast and splint: It is important to keep the cast dry and out of direct spray when showering. Two weeks after surgery, you will have your first post-operative visit.
What are the treatment options for CMC in the thumb?
Surgical Treatment Option: Thumb CMC Arthroplasty. Before going to the operating room, a “block” (additional anesthesia) will be injected into the arm for additional numbing, primarily for post-operative pain control. The hand may remain somewhat numb for up to a day after surgery.
What is the post-op protocol for thumb carpometacarpal arthroplasty?
Thumb Carpometacarpal (CMC) Arthroplasty Dr. Bakker’s Post-op Protocol Important Instructions Following Surgery: After surgery, your forearm and hand will be in a large bandage and plaster splint. Please DO NOT remove this. Try to keep your bandage clean and dry.
What is the function of the CMC?
The CMC joint gives the thumb a wide range of motion – up, down, and across the palm, as well the ability to pinch. A joint is comprised of two bones, each covered with cartilage (hard slippery tissue that serves as a shock absorber to allow smooth movements).