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This study investigated revision surgery for the thumb after failed trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition and defined a revision concept. Twenty-four patients with 25 affected thumbs were examined at a mean of 5.5 years after their last revision operation. Pain during daily activities was 2.7 on a 0-10 numeric rating scale, pain at rest was 1.6 and the brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire score was 63. Although 68% of patients indicated that their thumb was better than before primary surgery, the outcome after revision surgery was less favourable than that reported for primary trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition. We defined a revision algorithm to use as a guide for patients with residual symptoms after resection arthroplasty. The main reason for revision, symptomatic impingement of the thumb metacarpal, should be treated with resection of the metacarpal base and scaphotrapezoidal joint. An existing interposition should be revised, or a new interposition should be used, preferably with an autologous tendon or alternately with an allograft. Level of evidence: IV.