Sorry for the late reply. This message got lost in a bunch Halloween emails.
About the thumb joint. The doc took tendon from the wrist to part way up the arm. Then opened up the joint, cleaned it out. Wrapped the tendon for a cushion. I was in a cast for 4 weeks. Then was weak as a kitten, but have excellent strength a year later, and NO PAIN! I would tell anyone to not hesitate to get 'er done! Hope yours goes well.