To reduce pain and instability, early stages of osteoarthritis are often treated using what are known as conservative, non-surgical measures, such as anti-inflammatory medication and splinting.

The more the cartilage wears away, the more the pain increases and the poorer the functionality of the hand. In this situation surgical treatment should be recommended, performed by a hand surgeon or an orthopedic physician, after examination and X-ray showing the degree of cartilage destruction.

In the most common surgical techniques there are two alternatives; either the whole trapezial bone is removed and the joint is stabilized with the aid of a tendon graft, or the joint is fused. Both methods usually reduce the pain and restore some of the functionality, but they also cause a shortening of the thumb. When Artelon^® CMC Spacer is used only 1-2 mm of the trapezial bone closest to the joint is removed and the anatomy is therefore kept intact. Read more about Artelon^® CMC Spacer and Artelon^® CMC Spacer Arthro »

Note: There are risks associated with implant surgery. Please discuss these risks with your doctor.