Marina Khromova / Getty Images
What Is a Trapeziectomy?
When this happens, thecartilagein the joint between the trapezium and metacarpal bones will break down and thin.
When these symptoms do not resolve with conservative treatments, a trapeziectomy may be recommended.
Marina Khromova / Getty Images
You won’t be allowed to drive home after surgery, so be sure to arrange for a ride.
These include:
You will also be instructed to stop eating before midnight on the eve of your surgery.
This is to avoid possible vomiting and accidentalaspirationwhile undergoing anesthesia.
SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images
Be sure to follow your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions to avoid complications or the possible delay of your procedure.
What to Expect
Procedures can vary depending on where your trapeziectomy is performed.
The information below gives you a general idea of what to expect.
Trapeziectomy involves multiple steps.
After the Surgery
After your trapeziectomy, you will be brought to a recovery room.
Your vital signs will be monitored as the effects of the anesthesia begin to wear off.
You’ll typically be able to go home one or two hours after the procedure.
Recovery
After a trapeziectomy, you’ll go home with stitches and a cast on your thumb.
To help ease pain and inflammation, you’ll be prescribed medication likeTylenol (acetaminophen).
you’re free to alsoice and elevateyour hand, especially during the first week.
Additional surgeries are uncommon.
Recovery times can vary from several weeks to several months.
It is crucial that you follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to ensure the best possible results.
2019 Dec;11(4):453-458. doi:10.4055/cios.2019.11.4.453
Arthritis Care.Trapeziectomy.
British Columbia Department of Health.Warfarin therapy - management during invasive procedures and surgery.
National Health Service (UK).Trapeziectomy.
Elfar, JC, Burton, RI.Ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition for thumb basal arthritis.Hand Clin.
2021;86(6S Suppl 5):S622-S624.
