CPT® Code 26842

Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb is a surgical procedure aimed at fusing the joint to alleviate pain and restore stability, particularly in cases of arthritis or joint instability. The CMC joint is located at the base of the thumb, where the metacarpal bone of the thumb meets the trapezium bone of the wrist. This procedure involves the removal of the articular cartilage from the joint surfaces, which is essential for reducing pain and improving function. The surgery may involve the use of an autograft, which is a piece of bone taken from another part of the patient's body, typically the iliac crest, to facilitate the fusion process. The procedure is designed to create a solid union between the bones, thereby eliminating movement at the joint and providing a stable base for thumb function. The use of internal fixation devices, such as pins or wires, may be employed to maintain the proper alignment of the joint during the healing process. Overall, this procedure is critical for patients suffering from debilitating conditions affecting the thumb's CMC joint, allowing for improved quality of life and hand function post-surgery.