Trapezectomy?

Question

Hello,
Has anyone had this operation, and what is the success rate.
My Wife has been advised that it will help her to regain use of her right thumb which is very painful, but she is very nervous of having this proceedure on only the surgeons recomendation, as she points out surgeons operate on people, that is their job.
Perhaps if anyone can tell us how successful the operation is, how much pain and scarring there is, and how long before the hand can be used in the normal way.
How the thumb is kept immobile after the operation and for how long.
Any information will be welcome to help her decide if it is for her.
Thanks.

Answer 1

Your wife has an excellent point about surgeons recommending surgery because it's their job. Here's some information for you on this condition.

Fusion of the thumb involves the fusing of
the thumb bones by inserting a metal pin
through the centre of both bones. This
holds the bones in the correct alignment to
facilitate fusion.

Like any surgical procedure, there are
associated risks. Infection may occur as well
as the complications associated with
abnormal pain response (known as complex
regional pain syndrome). You may
experience some residual pain and the
thumb may be stiff and weak.

Rehabilitation
Trapezectomy - You may be in plaster, or a
thick bandage, for up to two weeks and
may require physiotherapy. You should try
to move your fingers as soon as possible.
Fusion – the forearm and hand are placed in
a cast until the bones completely fuse
together.

There are two other doctors I would recommend your wife visit before she gets the surgery. A chiropractor and an acupuncturist . These doctors can often help hand problems without having to have surgery.