Picture 1: Thumb basal (carpo-metacarpal) joint degeneration (loss of cartilage and bone ends damage)

Picture 2: Marked arthritis can be associated with thumb 'zig-zag' deformity due to imbalance in tendon pull across the affected joint

Picture 3: X-rays of the wrist indicating marked arthritis of the thumb basal joint

Picture 4: Neoprene thumb wrap can be helpful in alleviating pain and restricting movement in arthritic joint

Picture 5: Parts of two affected bones which have to be addressed by surgery

Picture 6: LEFT - Arthritis of the thumb basal joint; MIDDLE - after prosthesis insertion between two affected bones; RIGHT - after removal of one of the diseased bones (trapeziectomy)

Picture 7: Schematic illustration how thumb prosthesis can be stabilised with tendon loop to avoid its dislocation

Picture 8: Custom made splint worn after thumb surgery for few weeks

Picture 9: Thumb scar 3-6 months after operation