A trapeziectomy can relieve the pain of arthritis and improve how your thumb works.
If you’re living with thumb pain, even simple everyday tasks become difficult. Simple movements such as turning a key, opening jars, writing, fastening buttons or using your phone all rely heavily on the thumb joint. When arthritis develops at the base of the thumb, these routine activities can become painful and frustrating.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, we offer private trapeziectomy surgery to treat the symptoms of thumb arthritis, performed by experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeons. The procedure is designed to relieve pain and improve hand function where conservative treatments have not provided enough relief.
If thumb pain is affecting your grip strength, independence or quality of life, specialist assessment can help you understand whether this operation is an appropriate option. Call us today to book a consultation to discuss trapeziectomy with an orthopaedic surgeon near you.
A trapeziectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat arthritis at the base of the thumb, specifically in the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. This joint is formed between the first metacarpal bone and a small wrist bone called the trapezium.
In thumb arthritis, the cartilage inside this joint wears down over time. As the protective cartilage reduces, the bones may rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced grip strength.
During a trapeziectomy, the surgeon removes the trapezium bone. In some cases, a small portion of tendon may be used to help stabilise the joint and support healing. Removing the arthritic bone eliminates the painful bone-on-bone contact that causes symptoms.
This procedure can be performed under regional or general anaesthetic and may be carried out as a day-case operation. After surgery, your hand will typically be placed in a splint or cast to protect the area while healing begins.
Although it may sound significant to remove a bone, the body adapts well, and many patients experience meaningful pain relief and improved function once recovery is complete.
Before recommending surgery, your orthopaedic consultant will carry out a thorough assessment of your symptoms. This usually includes discussing when your pain began, how it affects daily activities, and what treatments you have already tried. A physical examination of the hand will assess joint movement, tenderness and grip strength. X-rays may be arranged to confirm the extent of arthritis at the base of the thumb.
Trapeziectomy is generally only considered when non-surgical measures such as splints, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication or steroid injections no longer provide sufficient symptom control. The aim of surgery is to remove the arthritic bone at the base of the thumb joint, relieving pain and improving function.
Your consultant will explain the procedure in detail, including expected recovery time and rehabilitation. This ensures you can make an informed decision about whether surgery is right for you.
The cost of a trapeziectomy at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on your individual clinical needs and the details of your treatment plan, as well as which consultant you choose.
During your consultation, your orthopaedic surgeon will assess your condition and confirm whether surgery is recommended. If a trapeziectomy is advised, you will receive clear information about the procedure and associated costs before proceeding.
Pricing typically reflects the full journey of care, which may include the surgical procedure, anaesthetic, hospital stay and follow-up appointments. If post-operative therapy is required, this will be discussed as part of your overall treatment plan.
If you have private medical insurance, it’s important to check your level of cover directly with your provider. For self-funding patients, the hospital team will provide transparent pricing information and explain available payment options.
Clear communication around costs forms part of the hospital’s commitment to patient-centred care.
Recovery after a trapeziectomy takes time and requires patience, but most people see steady improvement.
Immediately after surgery, your hand will be supported in a splint or cast to allow the surgical site to begin healing. Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first few weeks, and you will be advised to keep your hand elevated where possible.
After the initial healing period, you may transition to a removable splint and begin gentle hand therapy exercises. Physiotherapy or hand therapy plays an important role in restoring movement and rebuilding strength. Your consultant or therapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your stage of recovery.
Many patients notice a gradual reduction in pain over the first few months. Grip strength and dexterity improve steadily, although it can take several months to regain optimal function. Full recovery timelines vary, but it’s common for improvement to continue for up to six to twelve months.
Your consultant will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that healing is progressing as expected.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Hand function is essential to daily independence, and receiving care from experienced orthopaedic consultants in a dedicated hospital setting can provide reassurance at every stage.
Private treatment allows timely assessment and surgery where appropriate, reducing prolonged discomfort and uncertainty. From your initial consultation through to rehabilitation, your care pathway is designed to prioritise safety, comfort and optimal outcomes.
If thumb pain or weakness is affecting your daily life, booking a consultation is the first step. To arrange a consultation to discuss trapeziectomy or thumb arthritis with an orthopaedic surgeon near you, give us a call and we’ll help you find an appointment time that suits you.
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