Hand Joint Replacement in Dayton, OH
When people think of a joint replacement, they tend to think of larger joints such as the hips or knees. However, a hand joint replacement is also very common, particularly among those with arthritis. Miami Valley Plastic Surgeons is proud to offer joint replacement surgery to patients in Dayton, Centerville, Huber Heights, Miamisburg, and other nearby areas in Ohio.
What Is a Joint Replacement?
Joint replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged joint with a new, artificial one. Artificial hand joints are typically made from a type of silicone rubber, ensuring they are as pliable and flexible as possible. In some cases, portions of an individual’s own tendon or other tissue might be used to construct a new, healthy joint.
During a hand joint replacement, abnormal bone and joint-lining structures are cut away from the body and then a new joint is inserted into place.
Benefits of a Joint Replacement
Having a joint replaced in the hand can:
- Eliminate pain
- Improve your range of motion
- Eliminate disfigurement in cases where the fingers do not straighten properly
- Restore proper hand and finger functioning
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Joint Replacement?
You may be a good candidate for joint replacement if you have a severely damaged joint due to an injury or a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis.
What do I Need to do Before a Joint Replacement?
Several things could be required before a joint replacement, such as:
- X-rays to determine the condition of the joints
- Pre-operative tests such as blood work or an electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Eliminating blood-thinning medications or supplements
Bring someone along to drive you home from your appointment. Have a heating pad, acetaminophen, and plenty of ice on hand to help you manage your discomfort. Stock up on foods that do not require the use of a can opener to access, and ensure you have plenty of liquids to keep yourself from becoming dehydrated.
What Should I Expect on the Day of my Joint Replacement?
Anesthesia will be administered through a syringe, ensuring your hand is numb. You will lie on a table with your arm resting comfortably on an armrest. A barrier is placed between your body and hand so that you cannot see the surgeon at work. You may notice some movement (for example, gentle vibrating), but will not feel the surgeon make any incisions.
Soft tissues inside your hand or fingers are spread apart using a retractor. This exposes the joint so that it can be removed. A canal is formed in the surrounding bone so that your artificial joint can then be attached. Nearby ligament is wrapped around this joint to hold it in place before soft tissues are sewn together.
How Long Does it Take to Perform a Joint Replacement?
Expect to be under local anesthesia anywhere from one to two hours.
What to Expect After a Joint Replacement?
A splint will be added to provide stability and should be worn until after your follow-up exam. This will take place in 10 to 14 days, during which time your stitches may also be removed. During this period, you should keep your hand elevated above your heart as much as possible to reduce fluid buildup.
Will I Have Scars After Getting a Joint Replacement?
Visible scars are very possible after hand surgery; however, a scar revision is typically very successful when it comes to reducing or eliminating those scars.
When Will I See the Results?
You will notice some improvement after removing your splint; however, the healing process is rather long, so full results might not be seen for several weeks.
How Long Will the Results of a Joint Replacement Last?
Joint replacements are intended to provide you with permanent, long-lasting results.
Additional Procedures to Enhance Your Joint Replacement Results
If your hands are also thin and wrinkled, you may want to consider a fat transfer and injection procedure to help fill them out.
How Much Does a Joint Replacement Cost in Dayton?
Because you may have different needs than any other patient, we will not be able to discuss the exact cost with you until after your consultation. Cash, personal checks, and credit cards are always accepted for any of the procedures we offer, and many of our patients will also qualify for low-interest financing.
If you have limited movement in the hands or fingers due to an injury or disease, it may be time to consider hand joint replacement. Those in Dayton, Centerville, Troy, Beavercreek, and other nearby cities in Ohio are encouraged to contact Miami Valley Plastic Surgeons to schedule a consultation.
