How long does it take to recover from a wrist fusion?
“Total wrist fusion recovery time typically takes at least three months for bone healing and improves through the first six months,” Dr. Dicke said. “The patient adapts well to the loss of motion after the first year.”
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Is wrist fusion a major surgery?
It fuses the long bone in your forearm to the smaller bones in your wrist. This is a major surgical procedure. Your doctor may only recommend it after trying conservative treatments first.
What is a wrist fusion?
Introduction. Wrist arthrodesis, also known as wrist fusion, is a procedure in which the wrist joint is immobilized by fusing the radius to the carpal bones. It is a procedure used for pain relief purposes in conditions such as advanced wrist arthritis, following wrist fractures, or severe ligament injuries.
Can you move your fingers after wrist fusion?
If a plate fixation is used and the fixation is solid often no post-operative immobilisation is required, and patients are advised to move their fingers as soon as possible. Swelling is common after such a surgery and it is advisable to highly elevate the hand for the first few weeks after surgery.
Can you drive with a fused wrist?
You can drive once you are fully weight-bearing and no longer taking narcotics. Following your procedure, you will be put into a splint. This will need to stay in place until your first post-operative appointment.
What happens when you get your wrist fused?
Commonly used as a treatment for arthritis in the wrist, a wrist fusion is a surgical procedure that involves joining the bones of the wrist together. This allows the bones to form and grow into one solid bone, which can help eliminate pain since the bones are no longer rubbing against each other.
How long does a wrist fusion operation take?
A surgeon may also try to fuse the bones without a graft by screwing a plate or rod in place to hold the bones together. Wrist fusion surgery generally lasts around 90 minutes.
How should you sleep after wrist surgery?
Elevate your arm above your heart. The best way to do this comfortably is to lie flat on your back with your hand resting on a few pillows. Elevate your hand for at least three days after surgery.
Can a wrist fusion fail?
Failed wrist fusions fortunately are an infrequent problem for the hand surgeon to deal with. However, when it does occur, the surgeon may be faced with a multitude of problems relating to poor bone quality, bone loss, as well as copious scar tissue.
What is the fastest way to recover from wrist surgery?
Top 5 Tips for Recovery from Wrist Surgery
- Elevate your hand to decrease swelling.
- Begin mobilizing fingers as soon as possible to avoid stiffness.
- Ice to reduce inflammation.
- Attend physical therapy with a Certified Hand Therapist.
- Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for full activity.
What can you not do after wrist surgery?
Do not do any weight-lifting or strengthening exercises without talking with your surgeon or occupational therapist. Most patients will be able to perform most activities of daily living at about 6 weeks but with residual stiffness, with recovery of about 50% of their normal wrist motion.
How long do I need to wear a sling after wrist surgery?
Your doctor may instruct you on the proper care and cleaning of the surgical site. You might also have a splint or cast to keep your wrist immobilized, which you may need to wear for 4-6 weeks. A doctor may prescribe pain medication for the first few days after surgery to help alleviate any discomfort you might have.