(ii) Management of Peri-Trapezial Osteoarthritis

The trapeziometacarpal joint or first carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) is the commonest site of osteoarthritis in the hand causing considerable pain and disability. It most commonly affects post-menopausal females. One in four females over 40 may have radiographic evidence of changes to the trapeziometacarpal joint although most are asymptomatic. Careful clinical examination and radiographic studies will diagnose both the arthritis and the affected joint. The various surgical options generally produce satisfactory results. Therefore, other factors such as the length of the surgery and time for recovery may be important.