Wrist Arthrodesis
If you need a Wrist Arthrodesis, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What is Wrist Arthrodesis?
Wrist arthrodesis, also called wrist fusion, permanently joins the bones of the wrist to eliminate painful movement and provide long-term stability. Surgeons perform this procedure for patients with severe arthritis, advanced joint damage, complex fractures, or conditions that have not responded to nonsurgical treatments. During surgery, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage, positions the bones for proper alignment, and secures them with plates, screws, or other fixation devices until the bones heal together. Although wrist fusion eliminates wrist motion, many patients experience substantial pain relief along with improved strength and function for daily activities.
When is Wrist Arthrodesis the Best Option?
Doctors recommend wrist arthrodesis for patients suffering from:
- Severe Osteoarthritis: When wrist cartilage deteriorates, bone-on-bone contact occurs, causing pain and limited movement.
- Traumatic Injuries: Complex fractures or injuries may destabilize or misalign the joint, requiring fusion to restore function.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disease causes joint deformity, making fusion a possible solution.
- Infections or Joint Damage: Severe joint destruction due to infection or other conditions may require wrist fusion surgery.
How Wrist Arthrodesis Works
In wrist arthrodesis, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and positions the bones to encourage fusion. Metal plates, screws, or pins hold the bones in place while they heal. Over time, the bones fuse into one solid piece, eliminating painful joint movement.
The surgeon typically performs the procedure through a small incision on the wrist’s back or front. The surgery usually lasts one to two hours, depending on the condition’s complexity.
Benefits of a Wrist Arthrodesis
Although wrist arthrodesis eliminates wrist movement, it offers several benefits:
- Pain Relief: Fusing the bones stops joint movement, significantly reducing pain, especially in severe arthritis or joint damage cases.
- Improved Function: While wrist flexibility decreases, the procedure stabilizes the wrist and improves hand function, aiding daily activities.
- Durability: Wrist fusion surgery provides long-lasting relief, often more effective than other treatments for advanced joint damage.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After wrist arthrodesis, patients wear a cast or splint for several weeks to keep the wrist immobilized and promote healing. Pain and swelling are common during the first few days but can be managed with prescribed medications and rest.
Full recovery can take several months, as it may take up to six months or longer for the bones to fully fuse. Physical therapy is often recommended during this time to restore strength, improve muscle function, and prevent stiffness in the hand and forearm.
Wrist arthrodesis offers long-term pain relief, joint stability, and improved function, helping patients return to daily activities with less discomfort.
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.
