Rhizarthrosis: treatment approaches in modern orthopedics

Rhizarthrosis is an osteoarthritis of the trapezium-metacarpal joint, a common condition mainly affecting postmenopausal women, which has a significant impact on the quality of life and functionality of the hand. The thumb is critical for grasping and strength of the entire hand, and functional impairment of the thumb mobility in rhizarthrosis reduces hand function significantly. Despite its high prevalence and risk of disability, therapeutic options for rhizarthrosis remain limited. Treatment usually requires a multidisciplinary approach using a combination of non-pharmacological, pharmacological and surgical strategies. The literature review observes various surgical treatment options for rhizarthrosis, such as ligament reconstruction, tendon interposition, resection arthroplasty and joint replacement or arthrodesis.