If non-surgical treatments are ineffective in relieving symptoms wrist replacement surgery may be considered.
The surgery is performed under general or regional anaesthesia.
An incision is made over the back of the wrist. Some small bones from the wrist are removed and then metal prostheses are placed within the wrist and are secured using bone cement. A plastic spacer is then fit between the metal components.
Your arm will be in a brace for the first few weeks after the surgery and you will be prescribed medications to control any pain. Elevating the wrist on a pillow above heart level while sleeping or sitting will help reduce swelling and discomfort. Physiotherapy will also be advised to restore movement to the wrist joint.
Although wrist replacement surgery is considered safe, there are certain risks and complications associated with any type of surgical procedure. Some of the risks and complications include infection, fracture of the wrist bone, dislocation of the wrist, damage to the nerves or blood vessels, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), loosening of the implants, wear of the implant, and failure to relieve pain.
Painful wrist movements would lead your doctor to investigate your pain with radiological scans, and signs of Arthritis on an X-ray will be a determining factor for a Wrist replacement. Speak to our surgeons or your health professional today if you’re feeling pain in your wrist.
You cannot drive for 6 weeks post surgery. As you will be in a dressing/brace you cannot get the wound wet so you cannot swim or submerge your wrist in water. You will not be able to lift anything for 6 weeks post surgery, or until advised by your surgeon. You cannot do any strengthening exercises with your therapist until the 3 months mark post surgery.
Matthan is an internationally qualified orthopaedic surgeon, who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and the Australian Orthopaedic Association.
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