The rheumatoid thumb.
Although the thumb is frequently involved in rheumatoid arthritis, causing significant functional loss as well as pain and deformity, much can be done surgically to alleviate the condition and restore function to the patient. It is important to understand the factors leading to the various thumb deformities. With this understanding it is possible to formulate a rational treatment programme which will benefit the patient and satisfy the surgeon.
D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008662:Metacarpophalangeal Joint / Q000601:surgery; D000074402:Synovectomy; D013933:Thumb / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery