Joint reconstruction

[Kaipo_k]

Is there anyone that can fabricate an artificial joint for my thumb?(at the base of the thumb) I had an accident with my saw and totally destroyed the joint and was told my only option is to fuse it. I am a carpenter and need the full use of my thumb! As for now, I was told Ill only be able to bend the top joint and the bottom joint after everything has healed. I appreciate any help with this matter!!!

[Michael L Gross, MD]

There are interposition arthroplasties that can be done if the joint is stable.  This means taking a tendon and rolling it up, and stuffing it in the space where the arthritic joint is.  If a fusion is necessary, usually there is no loss of function, since the motion lost at the mcp joint is made up by the surrounding joints.  I would suggest a visit to an orthopedic hand specialist to explore your options more closely.

[Kaipo_k]

Its the metacarpophalangeal thumb joint