Treatment

Wrist Fusion Surgery

Overview

Wrist fusion surgery also called wrist arthrodesis, is a procedure where the bones in the wrist are fused together to stop painful motion. It is commonly done when the wrist joint is damaged due to severe arthritis, injury or other chronic conditions. By fusing the bones, it helps reduce pain and stabilizes the wrist, allowing patients to regain better hand function.

Why Wrist Fusion Surgery Procedure is Required?

• When wrist arthritis causes long-term pain that doesn’t improve with other treatments.
• In cases of severe wrist fractures or injuries where the bones cannot heal properly.
• When there is joint instability due to diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
• If there is advanced degeneration of the wrist cartilage causing limited movement and pain.
• To avoid further damage when wrist replacement surgery is not a suitable option.
• For people with failed partial wrist fusion or prior wrist operations.
• In certain cases of carpal collapse, especially requiring 4 corner fusion.

Key Advantages of Wrist Fusion Surgery Treatment

• Significantly reduces or eliminates chronic pain in the wrist.
• Provides a stable and strong wrist for daily tasks and lifting.
• Helps patients regain the ability to do functional hand movements.
• More long-lasting than wrist replacements, especially in younger patients.
• Can prevent the spread of arthritis to other wrist joints.
• Better results in patients who do heavy work or manual labor.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Wrist Fusion Surgery Treatment

• Medical evaluation: Your doctor will assess your wrist condition using X-rays, CT, or MRI scans.
• Medication review: Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners.
• Stop smoking: It can slow bone healing after fusion surgery.
• Fasting guidelines: You may need to avoid food and water before the surgery as instructed.
• Home preparation: Arrange help for basic tasks at home for the first few weeks.
• Discussion on expectations: Understand the limits of a fused wrist and how life after wrist fusion may change.

How Wrist Fusion Surgery Treatment is Performed?

• A wrist fusion procedure is usually done under general or regional anesthesia.
• The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage from the wrist bones.
• A metal plate (wrist arthrodesis plate) and screws are used to hold the bones in place.
• In 4 corner fusion, four wrist bones are fused while preserving some motion.
• In total wrist fusion, the entire wrist joint is fused, offering maximum stability but no motion.
• Bone grafts may be used to encourage bone fusion between the wrist bones.
• The hand is placed in a cast or splint to heal after surgery.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure:
• Pre-surgical tests like X-rays, ECG, or blood work will be done.
• You will receive instructions on fasting and medication.
• A consultation with the anesthetist will be arranged.
• During the Procedure:
• Surgery usually takes 1–2 hours.
• Surgeon will fuse bones using a wrist arthrodesis plate or screws.
• A cast or splint will be applied to keep the wrist in place.
• After the Procedure:
• Your wrist will be in a splint or cast for 6–8 weeks.
• Physical therapy may begin after healing.
• You will slowly learn to adjust to life with a fused wrist.
• Follow-up visits will monitor bone healing and fusion progress.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Nonunion, where bones do not fully fuse.
• Nerve or tendon injury during surgery.
• Loss of wrist motion (expected with full fusion).
• Need for revision surgery if fusion fails.
• Problems after wrist fusion, such as stiffness or pain in surrounding joints.
• Visible full wrist fusion scar.
• Changes in grip strength and hand positioning.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients experience significant pain relief.
• Improved stability and ability to perform daily tasks.
• Fusion is typically permanent and durable.
• Many can return to work, though some adjustments in activities may be needed.
• Life after wrist fusion is generally positive with proper recovery.
• In life after four corner wrist fusion, some wrist motion is preserved and pain is reduced.