Is CMC arthroplasty the same as LRTI?
CMC arthritis is commonly known as arthritis of the thumb or basal joint arthritis. LRTI (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition) is a surgical procedure to treat CMC arthritis.
How long is recovery for CMC arthroplasty?
The first 6 weeks are tough with pain, weakness, and stiffness in the thumb. Most patients have minimal pain by 3 months after surgery. Your symptoms will continue to improve with improvements in ability to do more activities every 3 months.
What is a CMC arthroplasty?
Thumb CMC arthroplasty involves removing the small wrist bone that is part of the CMC joint and replacing it with a wrist flexor tendon. During the procedure, a small incision (approximately 1.5 inches) is made over the CMC joint, and the trapezium wrist bone is removed.
How painful is LRTI surgery?
Most people get complete pain relief from LRTI, but recovery time is long and sometimes painful. Also, there can be significant complications from the removal of the trapezium bone.
What is LRTI thumb surgery?
LRTI (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition) is a surgical procedure that is most commonly conducted to treat thumb CMC (carpometacarpal) arthritis where the damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with a cushion of tissue that keeps the bones separated.
What is the most common complication with thumb arthroplasty?
The most common complications after a thumb arthroplasty include infection, temporary numbness along the top of the thumb, and stiffness.
When is a CMC arthroplasty needed?
The carpometacarpal joint is located at the base of the thumb and aids in many hand movements. When the cartilage shock absorber wears away, surgeons may recommend an arthroplasty to remove and replace the joint with a skin graft or an artificial implant made out of silicone, metal, or pyrocarbon.
Do they put you to sleep for hand surgery?
In most hospitals, surgery on the hand and wrist is usually performed using regional anesthesia and intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. Patients must undergo preoperative tests, fast starting the night before, and spend an hour or more in a recovery room.
Do you need a cast after thumb surgery?
After surgery, your thumb will be placed in a cast for three to four weeks, followed by a plastic splint for four to six weeks. Typically, it takes between six and eight weeks to regain full movement in your thumb.
How successful is thumb joint surgery?
Pros: Removing the entire trapezium eliminates the possibility of arthritis returning and, according to Dr. Ruch, LRTI has a 96 percent success rate. “Most patients achieve complete pain relief and mobility equal to that of a healthy thumb, with results lasting at least 15 to 20 years,” he says.