Total Wrist Replacement

Understanding the Role of Total Wrist Replacement (Wrist Arthroplasty)

Total wrist replacement, also known medically as wrist arthroplasty, involves the precise surgical replacement of the damaged joint surfaces in your wrist with advanced artificial implants, or prostheses. These meticulously engineered components, typically crafted from biocompatible metals and durable plastics, are designed to mimic the complex mechanics of a healthy wrist, allowing for smoother, pain-free movement.

Our highly skilled orthopedic surgeons at Ortho1 are adept at performing this intricate procedure, utilizing state-of-the-art techniques to achieve the best possible functional outcomes for our patients.

Identifying the Need for Total Wrist Replacement

Wrist replacement surgery may be a recommended solution for individuals experiencing significant wrist pain and functional impairment due to various conditions, including:

• Debilitating Wrist Arthritis: This encompasses osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis, where the protective cartilage within the wrist joint has severely deteriorated, causing bone-on-bone friction and pain.
• Complex Wrist Fractures with Irreparable Damage: In cases of severe wrist fractures where the bones cannot be effectively reconstructed, replacement may offer a path to pain relief and limited motion.
• Advanced Kienböck's Disease: When this condition, involving the loss of blood supply to a crucial wrist bone, progresses to significant pain and joint collapse, replacement can be considered.
• Specific Wrist Joint Tumors: In rare instances, surgical removal of a wrist tumor may necessitate joint replacement to restore function and alleviate discomfort.
• Revision of Failed Wrist Surgery: If previous wrist surgeries have not achieved the desired pain relief or functional improvement, a total wrist replacement might be a viable option.

If you are struggling with persistent wrist pain and a noticeable loss of hand function stemming from any of these conditions, the specialized wrist surgeons at Ortho1 in San Diego can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine if total wrist replacement is the most appropriate course of treatment for you.

Navigating the Process of Wrist Replacement Surgery

The wrist replacement surgery typically involves a carefully executed series of steps:

• Anesthesia Administration: You will receive either general or regional anesthesia to ensure complete comfort and relaxation throughout the surgical procedure.
• Precise Surgical Incision: The surgeon will make a carefully planned incision, usually on the back of your wrist, to access the joint.
• Preparation of the Wrist Bones: The damaged surfaces of the radius (the main forearm bone at the wrist) and the carpal bones (the small bones within the wrist) are meticulously prepared to receive the prosthetic components.
• Implantation of the Custom-Fit Prosthesis: The artificial wrist joint components, typically consisting of precisely shaped metal plates and a durable plastic articulation surface, are carefully positioned and securely attached to the prepared bones.
• Wound Closure: Once the new wrist joint is properly aligned and functioning, the surgical incision is closed using sutures or staples.

At Ortho1, our experienced surgeons are committed to employing advanced surgical techniques to ensure the accurate implantation and optimal performance of your new wrist joint.

The Distinct Advantages of Choosing Ortho1 for Wrist Replacement

Opting for Ortho1 Medical Group for your total wrist replacement surgery in the San Diego region offers several unique benefits:

• Specialized Expertise in Hand and Wrist Surgery: Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons possess focused expertise in the intricate anatomy and biomechanics of the hand and wrist, including advanced joint replacement procedures.
• A Focus on Restoring Dexterity and Function: We understand the critical role of hand function in your daily life, and our approach to wrist replacement is centered on maximizing your ability to perform fine motor skills and grip strength.
• Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Operative Support: We provide thorough guidance and education before your surgery and dedicated support throughout your rehabilitation journey to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
• Tailored Rehabilitation Programs for Hand and Wrist: Our occupational therapists specialize in hand and wrist rehabilitation, developing individualized programs to help you regain strength, range of motion, and the fine motor skills essential for daily activities.
• Convenient Access to Specialized Care: With our locations in San Diego and Coronado, you have convenient access to leading experts in wrist replacement close to home.

Your Journey to Recovery After Wrist Replacement

The rehabilitation period following total wrist replacement is essential for achieving the best possible functional outcome. You can generally expect:

• Immobilization and Protection: Your wrist will be carefully protected in a splint or cast for a specific period to allow for initial healing and support the new joint.
• Targeted Pain Management: We will implement a comprehensive pain management strategy to ensure your comfort during the recovery process.
• Specialized Occupational Therapy: A customized occupational therapy program, focusing on gentle exercises and progressive strengthening, will be crucial for regaining wrist motion, hand strength, and dexterity.
• Adaptive Strategies and Assistive Devices: Our therapists will work with you to learn adaptive techniques and may recommend assistive devices to help you perform daily tasks during your recovery.
• Gradual Progression of Activities: Your surgeon and occupational therapist will carefully guide you on when and how to safely resume your normal activities, ensuring you don't overload the healing joint.

At Ortho1, our collaborative approach between surgeons and occupational therapists ensures you receive comprehensive and specialized care throughout your wrist replacement journey.

Considering Wrist Replacement in San Diego? Connect with Ortho1 Today

If you are experiencing persistent wrist pain and functional limitations that are impacting your life, and you believe total wrist replacement might be the solution, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons specializing in wrist surgery at Ortho1 Medical Group in San Diego or Coronado. We will conduct a thorough evaluation, discuss your specific condition and treatment options in detail, and address all of your questions and concerns.

Take the first step towards reclaiming the function of your hand and finding lasting relief from wrist pain. Contact Ortho1 Medical Group today!