Trapeziectomy

EVIDENCE

From: Hand Surgery Evidence updates: Jan 2026

Joint replacement versus trapeziectomy for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis: A systematic review. [6]

Datta S, Bandyopadhyay B, Tahir M, Shah R, Baid M, Hussain MW, Subbaraman K.

Cureus. 2025 Oct 19;17(10):e94908. doi: 10.7759/cureus.94908. eCollection 2025 Oct.

PMID: 41262787. Free PMC article. Review.

“Summary of findings: 11 studies, including retrospective and prospective cohort studies, a randomised controlled trial, and a same-patient comparison study, were analysed. Outcomes assessed included pain relief, grip and pinch strength, range of motion (ROM), patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), recovery time, and complication rates. Both procedures effectively relieve pain and improve function. Joint replacement demonstrated superior short-term functional outcomes and faster recovery, particularly in strength restoration. However, it was associated with implant-specific complications. Trapeziectomy, while slower in recovery, showed consistent long-term efficacy and fewer implant-related issues. Both surgical options are viable. The choice should be individualised based on patient goals, anatomical considerations, and the balance between rapid functional recovery and implant-related risks.

However, I would like to clarify that my current scope of practice includes Thumb CMC joint excision- removal of bone- (trapeziectomy) only, and does NOT include Thumb CMC joint or any finger joint replacement surgery.