[Treatment of osteoarthritis of the thumb basal joint]

Osteoarthritis in the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb (CMC1) is described in three patients who were all restricted in their daily activities by the disease. CMC1 osteoarthritis is a common disease affecting mainly postmenopausal women and individuals who use the joint intensively. Two of our patients, a 52-year-old female teacher and a 45-year-old male dentist, were treated by resection of the articular surfaces and interposition of a tendon or a polycarbon disc into the joint. To achieve a strong, stable thumb a 58-year-old sculptress had arthrodesis of the left CMC1. In her right hand, resection of the trapezium and ligament reconstruction of the CMC1 joint was necessary. There is no evidence-based guideline for treatment of osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. Many non-surgical and surgical treatment options for CMC1 osteoarthrosis have been described. Optimal treatment is chosen depending on radiological staging of the disease and on the wishes and expectations of the patient.