Evolution of basal joint arthroplasty and technology in hand surgery.

There are many surgical procedures that provide pain relief and improve function for trapeziometacarpal (TM) arthritis. The aim of this article is to review the history of surgical treatment of thumb basal joint arthritis and to discuss some of the recent advances based on evolving technology. Our preferred treatment is described, and explanation provided for why we have avoided the temptation to change to the "latest and greatest" treatment for this condition.