About Wrist Replacement

This information is intended for general information only and should not be considered as medical advice on the part of Health-Tourism.com. Any decision on medical treatments, after-care or recovery should be done solely upon proper consultation and advice of a qualified physician.

What is Wrist Replacement Surgery?
Wrist replacement surgery is a surgical procedure in which a severely injured or damaged wrist is replaced by an artificial implant of the wrist joint.

Wrist replacement surgery aims to achieve recovery of wrist movements. The length of the tendons and muscles of the fingers are restored as well, and in this way the lost strength is recovered. The patient's ability to engage in daily activities is also improved.

The Wrist Implant
The wrist implant may be of different designs. Mostly, the wrist implant consists of two components that are required for the two sides of the joint. The components are metal made and in the space between the components a superior quality plastic is used. Modern day implants replicate the wrist anatomy.

One component is placed into the forearm radius. The part of this component towards the wrist joint consists of a curve that fits the other component. The carpal component that is placed into the hand bone is inserted through one long and two shorter stems. It consists of a flat surface. The plastic spacer is placed between the two components in the area of the joint. It comes in different sizes and is shaped flat on one side and curved on the other. Due to this design, it is able to fit into the carpal component, and move on the radial component. This enables natural wrist movements.

How is Wrist Replacement Surgery Performed?

• An incision is made on the posterior side of the wrist.
• The tendons in the wrist are moved out of the way to reach the joint capsule.
• The joint capsule is opened to reveal the wrist joint.
• The damaged portions of the bones of the lower arm are removed.
• The foremost line of carpal bones may also be extracted.
• The radial component of the wrist implant is placed into the middle of the radius bone on the exterior side of the lower arm. Bone cement is used to hold the component in place.
• The carpal component is subsequently placed into the third metacarpal or attached to the remaining line of carpal bones. Bone cement is used to fix the component in place.
• The carpal bones may be joined together to support the component in a better way.
• The spacer is placed between the components.
• The tendons are placed back and the incision is closed.

• The patient is physically examined to ensure that the patient is in a good condition to undergo surgery.
• The doctor should be informed about any medication that the patient is taking with or without a prescription. These may include supplements or herbs or drugs.
• Certain medication that the patient is taking may be stopped two weeks before the surgery.
• The doctor should be informed if the patient has any ailments or medical conditions.
• The patient may be required to meet the physical or occupational therapist to learn some exercises before the surgery. The physical therapist helps the patient to be prepared for the post-surgery rehabilitation.
• The patient must stop smoking to ensure a quick recovery.

Learn more about Wrist Replacement

• Wrist replacement on Encyclopedia of Surgery