Bone-preserving thumb CMC joint replacement
TOUCH thumb joint replacement.
TOUCH is a dual-mobility implant designed for replacement of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint in selected patients with symptomatic arthritis. The aim is to relieve pain and support useful thumb movement and function, but results vary and all surgery carries risks.
Who might be suitable?
Patients with persistent thumb-base pain and functional limitation despite appropriate non-operative treatment may be considered. Examination and imaging help assess the pattern of arthritis, joint stability, bone quality and other factors that affect suitability. Joint replacement is not right for everyone, and Mr Naqui will say so if another option is more appropriate for you.
How does it compare with trapeziectomy?
Trapeziectomy is an established operation that removes the trapezium. Joint replacement preserves a joint articulation using an implant. Each approach has different trade-offs, including recovery, implant-related complications and potential revision procedures. The best choice depends on the individual patient and the available evidence.
Trapeziectomy or thumb joint replacement? A side-by-side comparison
Risks and limitations
Potential risks include infection, nerve irritation, stiffness, persistent pain, instability or dislocation, implant loosening or failure, fracture and the need for further surgery. Individual risks and expected outcomes will be discussed during consultation, and no outcome can be guaranteed.
Mr Naqui’s experience
Mr Naqui has extensive experience of TOUCH thumb joint replacement. His wider practice includes assessment and surgical reconstruction of complex thumb and wrist conditions, and he teaches thumb arthroplasty to other surgeons in the UK and internationally. Procedure volume is not, by itself, a guarantee of outcome.
Rehabilitation and follow-up
Postoperative splinting, hand therapy, activity progression and review are tailored to the operation and patient. Light activities may resume earlier than heavier gripping, lifting or sport. The team will explain what to expect before treatment, including arrangements for patients travelling from further afield.
TOUCH is a product name of its manufacturer. The surgeon, not the implant, leads your care: Mr Naqui recommends treatment on clinical suitability, including non-surgical options and trapeziectomy where these fit better.
Watch & listen
Thumb replacement,
in focus.
Explore thumb arthritis treatment and joint replacement with Mr Zaf Naqui, and hear a patient describe their experience.
Thumb arthritis: treatment options and joint replacement
Mr Zaf Naqui explains thumb-base arthritis, non-operative treatment and modern thumb CMC joint replacement.
Watch on YouTubeA patient’s experience of thumb joint replacement
A patient of Mr Naqui describes their experience of thumb joint replacement. Experiences are individual, not a typical or guaranteed result.
Watch on YouTubeVideos from Mr Naqui’s practice website. Patient experiences are individual, not a typical or guaranteed result. Surgery has risks and is not suitable for everyone; discuss your options with your surgeon. Playing a video connects to YouTube, which may collect data.