CAPITATE RESURFACING

If you need a capitate resurfacing, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Capitate Resurfacing?

Surgeons perform capitate resurfacin to address joint damage and restore function in the wrist. Additionally, the capitate situates itself among the small carpal bones in the middle of the wrist. This plays a crucial role in wrist movement and stability. Not to get confused with PIP Joint Arthroplasty which involves surgically replacing a damaged or diseased proximal interphalangeal joint.

In certain cases of wrist arthritis or advanced wrist degeneration, damage may occur to the articular surface of the capitate bone. Pain, limiting range of motion, and reducing wrist function amy occur. Moreover, when conservative treatments prove ineffective in providing adequate relief and the joint damage primarily affects the capitate bone, surgeons consider capitate resurfacing.

During this procedure, surgeons remove the damaged articular surface of the capitate bone. After, they place a metal implant to cover and resurface the bone. The metal implant replaces the damaged cartilage, creating a smooth and functional joint surface.

Capitate Resurfacing Procedure

The capitate resurfacing procedure begins with the surgeon making an incision on the back of the wrist to access the capitate bone. After gaining access, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and any loose fragments from the capitate bone to ensure a clean surface for the procedure. Next, the surgeon carefully sizes and positions a metal implant, usually made of cobalt-chromium or titanium, over the prepared capitate bone surface. This implant serves to replace the damaged cartilage, providing a smooth and functional joint surface. Once the implant is securely placed, the surgeon closes the incision using sutures or surgical staples, completing the procedure.

Capitate Resurfacing Procedure Benefits

This surgical procedure offers several benefits for patients with conditions affecting the capitate bone in the wrist. This procedure aims to restore joint function and alleviate pain by replacing or resurfacing the damaged surface of the capitate bone. By addressing conditions such as osteoarthritis or traumatic injuries, capitate resurfacing can significantly improve wrist mobility and reduce discomfort during daily activities.

During the procedure, the surgeon carefully prepares the damaged surface of the capitate bone and then either resurfaces it with biocompatible materials or replaces it with a prosthetic implant. This approach helps restore the smooth gliding motion of the wrist joint, enhancing overall wrist function.

Benefits of capitate resurfacing include reduced pain, improved range of motion, and enhanced grip strength. Patients often experience better quality of life as they regain the ability to perform tasks that were previously limited due to wrist pain and stiffness. Regular follow-up care ensures proper healing and long-term joint health.

Capitate Resurfacing Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, surgeons immobilize patients’ wrists with a splint or cast for a period to facilitate proper healing. Additionally, the recovery process emphasizes physical therapy and hand therapy as crucial components, with the goal of restoring wrist function, strength, and range of motion.

Furthermore, the duration of recovery can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Typically, patients receive advice to refrain from heavy lifting and activities that exert significant stress on the wrist during the initial healing phase. Moreover, capitate resurfacing aims to alleviate pain, enhance wrist function, and restore joint mobility in patients with isolated capitate arthritis. In comparison to more extensive wrist joint replacement surgeries, capitate resurfacing may maintain more natural wrist anatomy and stability.

However, like all surgical procedures, capitate resurfacing poses potential risks and complications. Some include infection, implant failure, nerve or blood vessel injury, and post-operative stiffness. Therefore, patients should engage in discussions with their orthopedic surgeon regarding the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of capitate resurfacing. The decision to proceed with this procedure should stem from a thorough evaluation of the patient’s individual condition and medical history.r

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.