If you’re living with thumb pain caused by rhizarthrosis (thumb arthritis), you’re not alone. This condition, which affects the base of the thumb, can make daily activities like opening jars or gripping objects feel impossible. But there’s hope! A recent study compared two surgical treatments for advanced thumb arthritis and found promising results. Let’s look at the findings together.
In this article:
What is rhizarthrosis?
Rhizarthrosis, also called thumb carpometacarpal arthritis, happens when the joint at the base of your thumb becomes worn down. This leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty using your thumb for everyday tasks. People with severe cases of rhizarthrosis often need surgery to relieve the pain and improve function. This study looked at two different surgical options for patients with the most advanced stages of thumb arthritis.
Which surgeries were compared in this study?
You might be wondering, “What are my options?” The study compared two procedures:
- The Ceruso procedure: This involves removing the damaged bone (trapeziectomy) and using a tendon from your abductor pollicis longus muscle as a cushion.
- The Altissimi procedure: Also a trapeziectomy, but here the flexor carpi radialis tendon is used to suspend the thumb joint without adding a tendon cushion.
Both surgeries aim to reduce pain and help you use your thumb more easily.
Results and which option may be better
Here is where it gets interesting. Researchers followed 52 patients who underwent one of these surgeries—26 people had the Ceruso procedure, and 26 had the Altissimi procedure. The results showed that both methods were effective for treating advanced thumb arthritis, but there were some key differences.
Here’s what they found:
- Patients who had the Altissimi procedure (without tendon cushion) said they were more satisfied with their surgery overall.
- They experienced better movement in their thumbs (called “range of motion” or ROM).
- The Altissimi procedure also took less time to perform, about 6 minutes less on average.
Both surgeries worked well, and the position of the thumb bones post-surgery didn’t affect the final results.
But you may be wondering, “Why does surgical time matter?” Shorter surgeries can mean less time under anesthesia and potentially faster recovery.
How do they compare based on the numbers?
| Procedure | Key Finding | Surgical Time Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Ceruso | Effective, but patients reported less satisfaction | About 6 minutes longer |
| Altissimi | Higher satisfaction and better thumb movement (ROM) | Shorter surgical time |
What does this mean for you? If you’re considering surgery, the Altissimi procedure might offer quicker recovery and more comfort, but either option can help with thumb pain and arthritis.
FAQ about rhizarthrosis and surgery
What is trapeziectomy?
This is a surgery where the damaged bone at the base of your thumb is removed to stop pain and improve movement.
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery time varies, but most people can expect improvement over several months after surgery.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes, physical therapy can help your thumb regain strength and motion after surgery.
Does age matter?
Thumb arthritis can happen to anyone, but severe cases are more common as you get older.
Conclusion: What should you do next?
This study shows both procedures can offer relief for thumb pain caused by advanced rhizarthrosis. If you’re struggling, speak with your doctor about which option might work best. Don’t forget to ask questions and consider therapy after surgery to boost your recovery.
Our site helps simplify medical science for conditions like rhizarthrosis, using research to guide you. Explore more articles to learn about other treatments and tips for managing thumb arthritis.
Disclaimer: Read this first
This article is not medical advice. Always speak to a qualified medical professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Study citation
Fidanza, A.; Rovere, G.; Colafarina, O.; Chiarolanza, F.; Fulchignoni, C.; Smakaj, A.; Liuzza, F.; Farsetti, P.; Logroscino, G. (2024). Tenoplasty in suspension with or without tendon interposition: A prospective randomized study in the treatment of advanced thumb carpometacarpal arthritis.