A new small-joint prosthesis that better preserves the anatomy and movement of an arthritic thumb is receiving widespread approval from physicians. Miami-based hand and upper-limb orthopedic surgeon Dr. Alejandro Badia is utilizing the BioPro® Modular Thumb Implant as a highly effective treatment alternative.

Despite this progress, scientists continue to search for even newer therapeutic technologies and advancements in biomaterials to address painful osteoarthritis of the thumb’s basal joint. “As the population ages and remains active, more effective treatments will be essential for managing this debilitating condition,” says Dr. Badia, an expert in hand, wrist, and upper limb disorders.

Advancements in the Treating of an Arthritic Thumb

The Challenge of Perfecting Treatment

A 2017 article in Orthopedic Research and Reviews notes that “treatment of thumb basal joint arthritis has yet to be perfected” and aims to provide pain relief while preserving thumb range of motion and strength. Dr. Badia agrees, highlighting that implant advancements like the BioPro® offer important “steps in the right direction” for replacing the arthritic basal joint.

The Prevalence of Basal Joint Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the basal (carpometacarpal or CMC) joint, located at the thumb’s base, is the second most common arthritic condition of the hand. It affects approximately 15 percent of people over 30 and about one-third of postmenopausal women. This condition can cause severe pain, loss of grip function and strength, and particularly, weakness in pinch, which can significantly impact daily activities.

The Impact on Quality of Life

Scientists believe that the basal joint is a key factor distinguishing humans from other primates, given its role in tool-making. Degradation of thumb function can drastically reduce a person’s quality of life, affecting routine and work activities.

Conservative Treatment Approaches

Early stages of basal joint arthritis are typically managed with conservative treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, thumb splinting, and physical therapy. However, these treatments do not alter the disease’s progression, leading surgery to be the next option.

Surgical Advancements

A multi-center prospective study, led by Columbia University in New York, began in late 2018 to compare treatment options for arthritic basal joints. The study aims to identify the most effective, cost-efficient, and safe treatments and increase awareness and confidence in these regimens for both clinicians and patients.

Ligament Reconstruction & Basal Joint Fusion

Osteoarthritis causes articular cartilage loss, leading to bony overgrowths in the basal joint’s trapezium bone. Standard surgical care involves removing the trapezium, stabilizing the thumb area with ligament reconstruction, and using a tendon spacer. This approach and other procedures, such as basal joint fusion (arthrodesis), have their drawbacks and complications. Removing the trapezium limits future options if pain persists, while joint fusion often results in decreased range of motion and incomplete bone union at the thumb’s base.

The BioPro® Modular Thumb Implant

Dr. Badia reports successful outcomes using the BioPro® Modular Thumb Implant. Clinical research supports his findings, indicating that the BioPro® design, which replicates the thumb’s normal orientation and adjusts to anatomical differences, reduces pain, improves function, and provides a good post-implant appearance.

“The main advantage of joint replacement surgery is that no bridges are burned, recovery is faster, pain is minimal, and the anatomy is well-maintained,” Dr. Badia concludes. If symptoms persist, the implant can be easily removed, and a more traditional surgical procedure can be performed.

About Dr. Alejandro Badia

Alejandro Badia, MD, FACS, is an internationally renowned hand and upper-limb surgeon and founder of Badia Hand to Shoulder Center and OrthoNOW®, a walk-in orthopedic care clinic in Miami Florida.

Dr. Badia specializes in treating all problems related to the hand and upper extremity, including trauma, sports injuries, joint reconstruction, nerve injuries, and arthroscopic surgeries.

He is a member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, the American Association for Hand Surgery, and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

If you need treatment or diagnosis for arthritic thumb or with the shoulder, wrist, hand or fingers, call Dr. Badia today to schedule a consultation:

Dr. Alejandro Badia MD, FACS
Gramercy Surgery Center
380 2nd Avenue
Suite #1000
New York, NY 10010

929-605-HAND (4263)