Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis[edit | edit source]

Diagram of osteoarthritis in the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb.

Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease affecting the carpometacarpal joint (CMC) of the thumb. This condition is characterized by the deterioration of the articular cartilage and changes in the surrounding bone structure, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function of the thumb.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

Anatomy of the hand showing the location of the trapeziometacarpal joint.

The trapeziometacarpal joint is located at the base of the thumb, where the trapezium bone of the wrist meets the first metacarpal bone of the thumb. This joint is a saddle joint, allowing for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and opposition.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

In trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis, the cartilage that cushions the joint wears down over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact. This results in pain and inflammation. As the condition progresses, osteophytes (bone spurs) may form, and the joint may become deformed.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Common symptoms of trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis include:

  • Pain at the base of the thumb, especially during pinching or gripping activities.
  • Swelling and tenderness around the joint.
  • Reduced range of motion.
  • Weakness in the thumb.
  • A grinding sensation in the joint.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination and patient history. X-rays can be used to confirm the diagnosis by showing joint space narrowing, subchondral sclerosis, and osteophyte formation.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

X-ray showing subluxation in trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis.

Treatment options for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis include:

Non-surgical[edit | edit source]

Surgical[edit | edit source]

Diagram showing forces after trapeziectomy.
X-ray of thumb arthrodesis.
X-ray of trapeziometacarpal joint replacement.
X-ray showing osteotomy of the thumb.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis varies. Non-surgical treatments can provide relief for many patients, but surgery may be necessary for those with severe symptoms. Surgical outcomes are generally favorable, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • "Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis." American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Accessed October 2023.
  • "Osteoarthritis of the Thumb." Arthritis Foundation. Accessed October 2023.
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD