Wrist fusion surgery is a procedure that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with wrist arthritis.
If you are experiencing severe wrist joint pain that is affecting your daily activities, it may be time to consider wrist fusion surgery as a treatment option.
This surgery can help restore function to your wrist and improve your quality of life.
Wrist fusion surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe arthritis in the wrist joint that has not responded to other treatments such as medications or physical therapy.
Wrist fusion surgery involves fusing the bones in the wrist joint together to reduce pain and improve stability.
Wrist fusion surgery is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hand and wrist surgery. These surgeons have extensive training and experience in performing complex surgeries on the hand and wrist.
It is important to choose a surgeon who has experience with wrist fusion surgery to ensure the best possible outcome.
Before undergoing wrist fusion surgery, your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
Recovery after wrist fusion surgery can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. In general, you can expect to experience some pain and discomfort in the days following the procedure.
Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your wrist and manage any pain during the recovery period.
Before wrist fusion surgery, you may have been experiencing severe wrist pain and limited mobility. After the surgery, you can expect a period of recovery and rehabilitation to regain strength and function in your wrist.
With proper care and follow-up appointments with your surgeon, you can expect to see improvements in your wrist function and a reduction in pain over time. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.
Wrist fusion is done by removing the damaged cartilage from the wrist joint and then surgically connecting the bones in the wrist with plates, screws, or pins to promote fusion and stability.
Wrist fusion is typically recommended for conditions like severe arthritis, wrist fractures that have not healed properly, or certain cases of wrist instability.
Recovery time for wrist fusion surgery varies, but patients typically wear a cast for 6-8 weeks and may need up to 6 months to fully recover.
You may be able to return to daily activities within a few weeks after wrist fusion surgery, but it can take several months to fully recover and regain strength in your wrist. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your individual progress.
The risks associated with wrist fusion surgery include infection, delayed wound healing, nerve or blood vessel damage, stiffness, and the possibility of the bones not fusing properly.
Wrist fusion can be effective in treating arthritis or fractures by stabilizing the joint and reducing pain. It may help improve function and quality of life in some cases.
Complications of wrist fusion surgery may include infection, delayed or non-union of bones, stiffness, pain, and injury to nearby nerves and blood vessels.
It typically takes about 3 to 6 months for the wrist to fully heal after fusion surgery.
Yes, physical therapy is usually necessary after wrist fusion surgery to help regain strength and range of motion in the wrist and hand.
Wrist fusion can be successful in restoring function and relieving pain in conditions like severe arthritis or fractures that haven't healed properly. However, it may limit wrist motion due to the fusion of the joint.