Patient Information Resources


Hand and Thumb Specialty Centers
8715 Village Drive
Suite 504
San Antonio, TX 78217
Ph: 210-251-4362
drcoleman@thatsc.net






Ankle
Fractures
Hand
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

Novel Operation for Thumb Arthritis and Carpal Tunnel

Posted on: 11/30/1999
Doctors at the Boston Medical Center have found a way to do two operations on the wrist and hand with one incision. They used a special L-shaped cut called the Wagner incision. In this operation, the trapezium bone can be removed and the transverse carpal ligament can be cut.

Now surgeons can treat thumb arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome at the same time. This is important because patients often have both problems together. A single operation cuts down costs and time in recovery. There are fewer problems because the nerve inside the carpal tunnel isn't disturbed. The single scar looks better too.

This study was done on four cadavers (upper limbs saved after death for study). The exact steps of the operation are described in detail for any interested surgeon. The authors say based on their results, the Wagner incision can be used to do a two-part operation in one-step safely.

References:
Charles Cassidy, MD, et al. Basal Joint Arthroplasty and Carpal Tunnel Release Through a Single Incision: An In Vitro Study. In The Journal of Hand Surgery. November 2004. Vol. 29A. No. 6. Pp. 1085-1088.

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.