Wrist Reconstruction Surgery, also known as Total Wrist Arthroplasty or Wrist Joint Replacement – replaces a wrist joint with an artificial one made of metal and plastic components. This is generally recommended when all non-surgical treatments fail to relieve pain and restore function.
The goal of this surgery is to create a stable joint with a functional range of movement and without pain.
Early Non-Surgical Treatments To Try Before Surgery
This surgery provides pain relief for patients with severe wrist arthritis, past injuries, or accidents. It can restore the wrist’s motion to the maximum extent, making it possible to do everyday activities.
After receiving a wrist replacement, the new artificial joint should last 10 to 15 years if care is taken not to continue activities that could put extra stress on the new joint or cause an accident, such as a fall.
Wrist Fractures: Severe fractures of the wrist bones, such as the radius, ulna, or carpal bones, may require surgery to restore alignment, stability, and function to the joint. Wrist reconstruction procedures, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), may be performed to realign fractured bones, secure them with screws or plates, and promote healing.
Wrist Ligament Tears: Injuries to the ligaments that support the wrist, such as the scapholunate ligament, triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), or lunotriquetral ligament, can lead to instability, pain, and dysfunction. Wrist reconstruction procedures, such as ligament repair or reconstruction, may be performed to restore stability and prevent further damage to the joint.
Wrist Arthritis: Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of motion in the wrist. Wrist reconstruction procedures, such as joint debridement, arthroplasty (joint replacement), or fusion (arthrodesis), may be performed to alleviate symptoms, improve function, and preserve joint integrity.
Wrist Instability: Recurrent wrist dislocations due to ligamentous laxity or previous injuries may necessitate surgical stabilization to prevent further instability and recurrent dislocations. Wrist reconstruction procedures, such as ligament repair, reconstruction, or augmentation, may be performed to restore stability and function to the joint.
Wrist Trauma: Severe trauma to the wrist, such as crush injuries, high-energy impacts, or penetrating wounds, can cause damage to multiple structures, including bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Wrist reconstruction procedures may be necessary to repair or reconstruct damaged tissues and restore function.
Wrist Tendon Injuries: Tears or ruptures of the tendons surrounding the wrist, such as the extensor or flexor tendons, can lead to weakness, dysfunction, and impaired hand function. Wrist reconstruction procedures, such as tendon repair or tendon transfer, may be performed to restore tendon continuity and function.
Wrist Nerve Compression Syndromes: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or Guyon’s canal syndrome, which involve compression or entrapment of the nerves around the wrist, may be treated with surgical decompression or release procedures to relieve symptoms and restore nerve function.
Wrist reconstruction is intended to alleviate pain, restore stability and function, and improve the quality of life for patients with wrist injuries. It’s essential to consult with Dr. Pournaras to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.
Depending on the preference of the top orthopedic sports medicine surgeon, Dr. Stephen W. Pournaras, and the characteristics of your injury, the surgical options could include open procedures, arthroscopic techniques, or a combination of both.
Please contact our office to schedule your appointment today to discuss your options.
For over 30 years, Virginia Board Certified Physician, Dr. Stephen W. Pournaras, Jr. has provided excellent healthcare and treatment for his patients. As a multi-specialty orthopedic practice, offering the best for you medically to treat, heal and lead you to optimum recovery. We are dedicated to using state-of-the-art technology while building nurturing relationships with each of our patients.
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