CMCJ - thumb replacement
A CMCJ replacement, or carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthroplasty, is a surgical treatment for thumb joint injuries. Often, CMCJ is used to treat arthritis. CMCJ replaces the joint at the bottom of the thumb with an artificial joint.
At a glance
About
Effective
Referrals
Not needed
Booking
Instant-book option available
Cost
-
Lincolnshire £ 17,800
Nature of CMCJ thumb replacement
CMCJ thumb replacement is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in the thumb joint by replacing the damaged or arthritic joint with a prosthetic implant. This procedure is typically recommended when conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy have failed. The replacement joint provides improved stability and movement, allowing patients to regain full use of their thumb.
Common causes of thumb joint injuries
Thumb joint problems treated by CMCJ thumb replacement are often caused by:
Osteoarthritis: Cartilage wear in the thumb joint leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Traumatic injuries: Fractures or dislocations can damage the thumb joint, affecting movement and function.
Overuse: Repetitive thumb movements can accelerate joint deterioration, leading to chronic pain.
Age-related degeneration: The natural wear of cartilage with age can result in limited joint mobility and pain.
Previous thumb conditions: Conditions like ligament damage or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to joint degeneration.
Diagnosis for CMCJ thumb replacement
Diagnosis for CMCJ thumb replacement starts with a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion in the thumb joint. X-rays or MRIs are often used to evaluate the extent of damage to the cartilage and joint structures.
If conservative treatments have not provided relief and joint degeneration is confirmed, CMCJ thumb replacement may be considered as a viable surgical option for restoring joint function and alleviating pain, particularly for patients with severe osteoarthritis or joint injuries.
Suitable for
Arthritis
Treatment overview
CMCJ is a surgical treatment for patients who have CMC joint arthritis, who have continuing symptoms despite nonsurgical approaches.
CMC arthritis is caused by a loss of cartilage in the joint that connects the base of the thumb to the wrist. Because the cartilage isn’t there, the joint can’t move freely and painlessly. So, patients suffer with pain at the base of the thumb.
CMCJ surgery is a cutting-edge treatment that aims to resolve this. In the surgery, the joint at the base of the thumb is replaced with an artificial joint. It’s essentially a ‘thumb joint replacement’. During the surgery, the damaged cartilage in the CMC joint is removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant made of either metal or silicone.
Benefits
CMCJ surgery can restore thumb alignment
It prevents further degradation of the joint
High level patient satisfaction
How to Pay
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Paying for Yourself (Preferred Option)
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
- Bank Transfers
- Credit/Debit Cards
- Cash (in person only)
Instalment Plans
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Finance Options
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
- Instant online decision
- No impact on your credit score
- Multiple lenders for competitive rates
Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
The booking process
Online booking/call
Use our Calendly to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
01
consultation
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
02
Treatment
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
03
Rehab
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
04
Follow up
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
05
Discharge
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
06
Frequently asked questions
What happens after the surgery?
After surgery, your thumb will be well-bandaged and supported with a splint.
The splint helps keep your thumb in a natural position, whilst it heals. Your doctor will also prescribe pain meds to help manage your pain.
After 14 days, your stitches will be removed, though some of them might have dissolved naturally by then.
What is the recovery period for CMCJ replacement?
You’ll usually have to wear a cast for two weeks and then a splint for up to 2 months. You might also have physiotherapy appointments, where you will learn exercises to strengthen your thumb. It might take up to six months for full recovery.
Schedule A Discovery Call With Us
Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help.
