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Patient testimonial: Thumb CMCJ replacement surgery

A patient at Cromwell Hospital shares their experience of being treated for arthritic thumb pain by Mr Ravi Mallina.

X-ray scan of thumb following CMCJ replacement surgery

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. In the UK, millions of people have arthritis or other, similar conditions that affect the joints.

Arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, and restriction of movement, and symptoms can sometimes have a debilitating effect on people’s life.  

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Diagnosing thumb pain

When Ms Levestam-Smart was experiencing pain in her thumbs, she visited Mr Ravi Mallina, Consultant Orthopaedic Hand and Wrist Surgeon at Cromwell Hospital, for diagnosis and support.  

“I saw Mr Ravi Mallina about pain I had been having in both of my thumbs for over a year. The pain was constant and worsened on activities such typing, opening jars, or carrying items. It was having a severe impact on my daily life, in particular my work. Mr Ravi quickly diagnosed the issue and then went through my options very clearly. I chose the CMCJ replacement surgery for my left thumb.” 

Mr Mallina diagnosed her with arthritis in the thumbs, and recommended thumb CMCJ replacement surgery.  

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Undergoing treatment

Thumb CMCJ (carpometacarpal joint) replacement surgery, also known as thumb base joint replacement, involves replacing the arthritic joint at the base of the thumb with an artificial joint to relieve pain and improve function. 

Mr Mallina said: "After I assessed Ms Levestam-Smart, I went through her options, and recommended thumb CMCJ replacement surgery, as it would offer her pain relief and return of mobility to her thumb join. CMCJ surgery requires me to remove and replace arthritic joint, which in this case was the trapezium bone, with an artificial joint."

Following her procedure, Ms Levestam-Smart said: "The surgery was very quick and I went home on the same day. I had bandages and a sling for the first 14 days and then I had the stitches removed. I already had good movement in my thumb and was able to perform the required thumb exercises." 

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Recovering from surgery

Of her recovery period, Ms Levestam-Smart said: "Within three weeks from the surgery, I was able to fully return to work with almost no pain. I have had three physio appointments and have been nearly pain free from six weeks after surgery."

"Mr Ravi and his team have been very supportive and made me feel very relaxed about having the procedure. The pain management provided was excellent, as has been the physio. I am delighted with the surgery, and with Mr Ravi and team. After suffering all those months, it seems incredible to have had such an excellent result so quickly."

Mr Ravi added: "I am delighted to have been able to help Ms Levestam-Smart and that she has had a good recovery."

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Orthopaedic care at Cromwell Hospital

Our consultant orthopaedic surgeons provide world-class care and treatment for patients with conditions affecting their joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. 

Mr Ravi Mallina, Consultant Orthopaedic Consultant, is a highly skilled and experienced Consultant Hand and Wrist Surgeon offering treatment within a multi-disciplinary team comprising of therapists, rheumatologists, anaesthetists and radiologists. He is known for his expertise in treating complex hand and wrist conditions. 

Discover orthopaedic care at Cromwell Hospital >

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