Hand And Wrist Fusion Surgery
What is fusion surgery?
Once all non-surgical options have been exhausted for hand and wrist arthritis, surgical intervention may be indicated. Some patients may prefer to opt for fusion over a trapeziumectomy. Fusion will alleviate painful symptoms of arthritis and will result in more power and a stronger pinch grip. There will be less range of motion with fusion when compared to a trapeziumectomy, so may be the preferred option for younger patients or those in manual jobs.
Fusion recovery
Following the operation your wrist will be placed in a bandage or plaster cast and you will have limited use of your hand. Approximately two weeks after the operation, the wound will be cleaned and any visible stitches will be removed. There may be some initial bruising and swelling.
Following this you will see the hand therapist and a splint or further cast will be applied. This should be worn for a further two weeks. The hand therapist will give you advice regarding exercises to aid recovery. It is quite normal to lose strength in the thumb initially and it can take up to a year to regain this strength.
fusion surgery risks
This type of hand and wrist operation is routine and complications are very rare. There is a small risk of the following resulting from the procedure:
- Infection – the risk is very low and can be managed well with antibiotics
- Pain – the thumb may feel uncomfortable for up to six months, while the scar within the joint consolidates and settles
- Stiffness – occasionally patients may have problems with increased stiffness in their hand
- Nerve injury – localised numbness around the wound and over the thumb may occur, which usually resolves with time
- Shortening – as the trapezium has been removed, the thumb may shorten which can reduce the overall span of your hand
When can I return to driving?
You will not be able to drive for the first six weeks following the procedure.
Anthony Hearnden
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon FRCS (Tr&Orth), Shoulder, Elbow, Hand and Wrist
