Thirty years' experience of excision of the trapezium for osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint has shown that this simple operation is entirely satisfactory.

1. The technique of excision of the trapezium for osteoarthritis of the trapezio-metacarpal joint is described.

2. The results of eighteen operations in fifteen patients are analysed.

3. The operation is of value particularly when the arthritis is monarticular. Results have been less satisfactory when the affection of the joint is part of a generalised arthritis.