History: 51 year old female with right thumb pain that had been present for over a year. Although it began after a fall, x-rays showed arthritis at the base of the thumb (CMC joint arthritis). After trying splinting, a steroid injection, and anti-inflammatory medication, she elected for surgery to alleviate her pain.
Diagnosis: Right thumb CMC arthritis
Treatment: Right thumb trapezium excision with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI)
Outcome: Her recovery proceeded smoothly and by 5 months after surgery she had regained full motion, had returned to all her activities, and no longer had any pain. She was very happy.
