How effective is joint fusion surgery for thumb arthritis?

Fusion joins the bones across a painful thumb joint so it no longer moves. A stable joint can make pinch or grasp less painful when movement itself is the main problem. The thumb has several linked joints, so fusing one does not make the whole thumb immobile; however, the precise joint matters greatly. Fusion near the base of the thumb has different effects from fusion at the end joint.

Pain from the wrist, tendons, nerves, or another thumb joint may remain. The surgeon considers alignment, pinch strength, dexterity, work tasks, and whether a motion-preserving option would better fit your needs.

Before surgery, describe tasks such as opening jars, turning keys, writing, phone use, or tool handling. Confirm the intended thumb position and how long a splint will be needed. During recovery, protect the fixation, keep the other fingers moving as directed, and attend hand therapy if prescribed. Therapy may address swelling, scar care, safe grip changes, and movement in joints that remain free.

Call the surgical team for increasing redness, drainage, fever, worsening swelling, severe pressure from the splint, or new tingling. A thumb or finger that becomes cold, pale, or blue needs urgent assessment. Seek emergency help for sudden chest pain or breathlessness. A review is appropriate if pain persists, the thumb shifts position, or grip becomes weaker after the expected protected phase.

Which thumb joint is the pain source? What pinch and grasp movements will remain after fusion? What position will you choose, and how will it affect my usual tasks? When can I use the hand for work, driving, and lifting?