Abstract
In this review we discuss the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of thumb
carpometacarpal (CMC) arthroplasty, both the preoperative evaluation and particularly
the postoperative MRI of different surgical options for patients with advanced degenerative
disease of the basal joint of the thumb. The first CMC joint is one of the most frequently
involved articulations in the hand and wrist in the setting of degenerative osteoarthrosis
and certainly a pain generator and important cause of disability due to its significant
impact on hand function. It is the most common joint for which surgery is sought in
the wrist. Radiologists interpreting imaging studies of patients with first CMC joint
arthroplasty must be familiar with the normal and abnormal preoperative appearance
of the thumb basal joint. Moreover, knowledge of the normal postoperative MRI findings,
as well as the appearance of patterns of failure and complications, is of paramount
importance.
Keywords
arthroplasty - ligament reconstruction-tendon interposition - suspensionplasty
