Hand Arthritis Surgery

Hand Arthritis Surgery

Hand arthritis can sometimes be resolved with surgery. Hand arthritis surgery is usually the last option when non-surgical options have failed to give relief and restore mobility. There are two main types of surgery performed: fusion and knuckle replacement.

Fusion

Fusion, medically known as arthrodesis, has a goal of strengthening and stabilizing function of knuckles by fusing the bones or joints together. A drawback is little to no flexibility and movement.

Knuckle Replacement

Knuckle replacement surgery, medically known as arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged and arthritic joint and replacing it with an artificial implant. This type of surgery is intended to relieve pain and restore some function along with a natural shape to the overall hand. Unfortunately, these implants don’t fully replicate normal finger motion. Often a surgery of this kind may need to be repeated in the years to come.