Rhizarthrosis, which is also called trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis, is one of the most common sites affected by osteoarthritis. The initial symptoms of pain progressively evolve to result in thumb deformity with functional deficits. Standard radiography is the examination of choice to establish the diagnosis. The initial treatment is conservative and consists of immobilization by orthosis, analgesics, physiotherapy, or infiltrations. When this treatment fails, surgical interventions may be proposed, sush as trapeziectomy or trapeziometacarpal prosthesis.
What is already known about the topic?
Rhizarthrosis is one of the most common sites affected by osteoarthritis, and it is one of the most frequently encountered diagnoses in hand surgery. The condition tends to progress over several years, eventually leading to a functional deficit of the thumb and hand. Several treatments can be proposed to the patients at different disease stages for pain relief.
What does this article bring up for us?
This article introduces rhizarthrosis to non-specialists, covering the most practical aspects, such as clinical examination, associated pathologies, and different treatment options.
Key Words
Rhizarthrosis, pain, trapeziectomy, trapeziometacarpal prosthesis