Trapeziectomy: procedures, safety, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is a trapeziectomy?

The trapezium is the cuboid bone in the wrist that connects to the base of the thumb (trapeziometacarpal joint). The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a condition when joints gradually become worn and torn. Arthritis wears away the cartilage that covers the joint surface, causing the bone underneath to be damaged. This causes pain and stiffness in the joints.

When should I have a trapeziectomy done?

Trapeziectomy can relieve the pain that appears. In addition, this procedure restores the function of your thumb.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before having a trapeziectomy?

Splints can be used to restrict thumb movement. In most people, injecting steroids into the joint can reduce the pain that is felt. Joints that are damaged may be replaced with artificial joints made of metal and plastic. For young and active patients, it is advisable to undergo an arthrodesis (the thumb bones are permanently joined together using a screw).

Process

What should I do before having a trapeziectomy?

In the preparation stage for surgery, make sure you tell your doctor about your health condition, any medications you are taking, or any allergies you have. The anesthetist will explain the anesthesia procedure and give further instructions. Make sure you follow all the doctor's instructions including the prohibition of eating and drinking before surgery. In general, you are required to fast for six hours before the surgery is performed. However, you may be allowed to drink beverages such as coffee a few hours before the surgery.

How is the trapeziectomy process?

Various anesthetic techniques may be used in this procedure. The operation usually takes one hour to 90 minutes. The surgeon will make a small incision in the back of the hand at the base of the thumb, then remove the trapezium. The surgeon can arrange the ligaments to connect the thumbs to the patient's wrist using tendons that work over the trapezium.

What should I do after having a trapeziectomy?

After having surgery, you are allowed to go home the same day. Keep your hands up for two weeks. The bandage or plaster cast will be removed after four to six weeks. Do light exercises for your thumb and other fingers to speed up the healing process. Light exercises on the elbows and shoulders can also prevent stiffness. Regular exercise has also been shown to speed up the healing process. But before deciding to exercise, you should ask a doctor for advice. The condition of the thumb will continue to improve over the next year as patients begin to get used to using the thumb.

Complications

What complications can occur?

Every surgical procedure has its own risks, including trapeziectomy. The surgeon will explain all kinds of risks that may occur after surgery. Common complications that can occur after surgery are the aftereffects of anesthesia, excessive bleeding, or blood clots in deep veins (deep vein thrombosis or DVT). You can reduce your risk of complications by following your doctor's directions before surgery, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.