By: Amin Afsari, DO
Does turning a key, opening a jar, or even buttoning a shirt cause hand pain? If so, you may be one of the millions affected by basal joint arthritis, the most common form of arthritis seen in the hand. It can make simple everyday tasks frustrating and painful. But there’s good news—advancements in orthopedic technology have led to an innovative treatment option, the Ensemble CMC Implant. This state-of-the-art thumb arthritis treatment can restore function and mobility and relieve pain in the thumb joint. If you’re tired of letting thumb pain limit your life, this implant could be the key to getting back to the activities you love.
What Is the Ensemble CMC Implant?
The Ensemble CMC Implant is a surgically placed joint implant designed to replace the damaged carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb. The CMC joint implant is made of pyrocarbon, a durable, biocompatible material known for longevity and strength that has been previously used in heart valves and other finger joint replacement implants. In addition, the implant is shaped to appropriately fit the unique saddle shape of the basal joint. Once in place, the implant helps maintain stability and mobility while reducing pain caused by arthritis. The CMC joint implant serves as an alternative to traditional treatments such as trapeziectomy—removal of the small bone that connects the thumb to the wrist—with or without ligament reconstruction or joint fusion. Finally, due to the nature of this joint replacement, it has a potentially faster recovery without the need to use a nearby tendon as a graft.
Who Is a Candidate for the Ensemble CMC Implant?
If you have moderate to severe basal joint arthritis and have not found relief through conservative treatments like splints, occupational therapy, or corticosteroid injections, you may be a candidate for the Ensemble CMC Implant.
The Procedure & Recovery
The procedure to place an Ensemble CMC Implant is performed as an outpatient surgery, meaning you can return home the same day.
After Surgery
- You will wear a protective splint for 4 weeks.
- Hand therapy will help restore strength and mobility.
- Most patients experience significant hand pain relief and improved function within a few months.
Is the Ensemble CMC Implant Right for You?
If thumb arthritis is affecting your daily life, request an appointment with Dr. Afsari to talk about whether the Ensemble CMC Implant is a good option for you. With its innovative design and promising outcomes, this advanced orthopedic solution could be the key to overcoming your painful arthritis.