Jersey Shore University Medical Center Now Providing Patients Advanced Thumb Joint Replacement

Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center is the first hospital in New Jersey to provide patients with the innovative TOUCH® CMC 1 Prosthesis, a next-generation thumb joint replacement. The advanced technology offers a new option for patients suffering from debilitating thumb arthritis.

Hand and wrist surgeon Christopher Doumas, M.D., led the surgical team that provided the first CMC 1 Prosthesis in July. “I could not be happier,” says 70-year-old Mariann, from Howell Township, NJ, who received the TOUCH CMC 1 Prosthesis. “In just 10 days, I was able to return to work and normal daily life. Dr. Doumas and the nursing staff were wonderful. I’m grateful I was able to receive this advanced procedure close to home.”

The TOUCH CMC 1 Prosthesis is a cementless, dual-mobility total joint replacement for the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb. This joint is crucial for grip and pinch strength, and its deterioration due to osteoarthritis can cause significant pain and loss of function. The prosthesis is specifically designed for patients with symptomatic Eaton-Littler stage II or III osteoarthritis who have not found relief with more conservative treatments. “I have been providing my patients with a surgical technique for 20 years that is very effective in treating CMC osteoarthritis,” says Dr. Doumas. “However, this new technology is a gamechanger, providing significantly shortened rehabilitation time, immediate use of the hand and no real need for immobilization. I’d select this type of approach for myself, so I’m now providing it for my patients.” Unlike traditional surgical options that may involve removing the trapezium bone, the TOUCH CMC 1 preserves the patient's anatomy, which can lead to greater stability and more natural thumb movement. Patients benefit from reduced pain, improved grip strength, and an increased range of motion, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life.

"We are incredibly proud of Dr. Doumas and the orthopedic surgical team for bringing this state-of-the-art technology to the community JSUMC serves," said Marc Levine, M.D., FAAOS, chair of Orthopedic Surgery, JSUMC, and Hackensack Meridian Health's Southern Region. "This achievement reflects our commitment to providing the most advanced and compassionate care. For individuals whose daily lives are impacted by the pain and limitations of thumb arthritis, this new prosthesis offers a promising path back to the activities they love. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this advancement and look forward to helping many more patients in the future."

The introduction of the TOUCH CMC 1 Prosthesis, which received FDA approval in July 2025, underscores Hackensack Meridian Health's dedication to pioneering orthopedic treatments and providing world-class care close to home. For information about services, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/orthopedics. To make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist, call 844-HMH-WELL.