Tired of wrist pain? Let's learn about wrist replacement surgery!

Do you experience unbearable pain when you bend or turn your wrist? Perhaps you feel a clicking sound with difficulty? Has this pain become so bothersome that you cannot do even the simplest daily tasks, such as combing your hair, lifting a cup, or writing? If so, today we are talking about a treatment that could be very important for you. That is wrist replacement surgery.

What is this wrist replacement? (Wrist Replacement)

Simply put, this is a surgical procedure. This involves removing your damaged, worn-out wrist joint and replacing it with an artificial joint. We call this artificial joint a `(prosthesis)`. It is usually made of metal and a special type of plastic `(polyethylene)`. It is designed to function just like a healthy wrist. In medicine, joint replacement surgery is commonly called `(Arthroplasty)`.

Our wrist is actually a complex joint made up of many small bones. It connects our hand and forearm (from the elbow to the hand). When we swing our arms, write, and lift something, the wrist moves. So when this joint is severely damaged or worn out, even doing everyday tasks becomes a source of great pain.

Are wrist replacement and joint fusion the same thing?

Yes, these are two types of treatment. Your doctor will probably explain both options to you. It is very important to understand the difference between the two.

• Wrist Fusion / Arthrodesis: This involves joining the bones that make up the joint together and making it permanently fused. After this, the joint cannot be moved. However, the pain is almost completely gone. There is no obstacle to lifting weights or using tools like a hammer. This is a good solution for someone who wants to get rid of the pain and do strong work.

• Wrist Replacement / Arthroplasty: This is the surgery we are talking about. Since an artificial joint is inserted in this, you will still be able to move your wrist after the surgery. This means you will be able to bend and turn your hand to some extent. However, there will be restrictions on lifting weights and doing strenuous work.

This table will make the difference between the two clearer to you.

Why do you need this surgery?

Wrist replacement surgery is usually a last resort . Doctors only resort to it if all other treatments fail to control the pain. The following are non-surgical treatments that are tried first:

• Modify your activities (avoid activities that increase pain).
• Painkillers (anti-inflammatories, acetaminophen)
• Wrist splints and ointments.
• Physical therapy.
• Steroid injections.

If none of these things work, you may need to consider surgery. The main reasons for this surgery are the following:

• Arthritis: Especially osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Injuries: Damage to the joint due to a severe injury, such as a wrist fracture.
• Failed wrist fusion surgery: If a previous wrist fusion surgery fails.
• Osteonecrosis: A condition in which the blood supply to the bones of the joint is disrupted, causing bone tissue to die.

What happens before the surgery?

Before recommending this type of surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will carefully examine several factors.

• They will ask about your overall health and other medical conditions.
• They ask when the wrist pain started and how it affects your life.
• The strength and range of motion of the wrist are tested.
• An X-ray is done to check the condition of the bones.
• They do things like blood tests to see if they can prepare you for surgery.
• We will make sure that other treatments have been tried and that other surgical options have been discussed with you.

What happens during the surgery?

This surgery is usually done in a hospital. It takes less than two hours. Here's what happens during the surgery:

1. Anesthesia: Anesthesia is given through an IV (intravenous) into your arm to put you completely asleep. In addition, an upper extremity block is often given to reduce pain after surgery.

2. Incision: A small cut (incision) is made above the wrist.

3. Joint removal: The damaged joint, worn cartilage, and bone fragments are removed.

4. Implantation of the artificial joint: The new artificial joint (prosthesis) is attached to the affected bones with pins, screws, or a special type of cement (bone cement).

5. Inspection: Check to see if the new joint is in place and moving properly.

6. Suturing: The surrounding tissues, nerves, and tendons are restored, and the incision is closed and sutured.

7. Bandage and splint: Finally, the wound is covered with clean bandages and a splint is applied to keep the hand immobile.

What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?

As with any surgery, there are benefits as well as some very rare risks. Your doctor will explain these to you in detail.

Things to do at home for your well-being

There are several things you can do to help you recover quickly and safely after surgery. Following these steps will also help your new joint last longer.

• Someone to help: It's much easier to have someone to help you with daily tasks in the first few days after surgery. Things like clothes with large sleeves and paper plates can be helpful during this time.
• Do not lift weights: Do not lift more than the doctor recommends. This is usually around 2-5 kg. Avoid using anything like a hammer or bending your arm to the extreme.
• Protect yourself from falls: A fall can damage your wrist. Be careful by removing slippery surfaces and things you can trip over at home. Stay away from sports that have a high risk of falling during this time.
• Exercise: Do the exercises exactly as your doctor and physical therapist give you. There may be some pain at first, but it will gradually decrease and your arm will become stronger.

When to see the doctor

If any problems arise after surgery, it is very important to identify them quickly and seek treatment.

If you have these symptoms a few days after surgery, tell your doctor immediately:

These may be signs of an infection.

• If you feel feverish or have a cold.
• If there is redness and swelling around the incision.
• If the cut is oozing pus or has a bad odor.
• If the pain is getting worse instead of decreasing.

If you experience any of the following after a while, see a doctor:

These may be signs of joint failure.

• Recurrence of pain.
• Stiffness or swelling in the joint.
• If the joint feels loose and out of control, it is called `(Instability)`.
• Decreased strength or function in the hand.

If you have ongoing pain in your wrist due to an injury or arthritis, your doctor may recommend wrist replacement surgery. This can reduce your pain and allow you to perform daily activities more easily.

Wrist Replacement, Wrist Arthroplasty, Wrist Pain, Arthritis, Joint Pain, Bone Surgery