Operation On Arthritic Hands.

[Barsel]

Anyone had an operation on arthritic hands and was it successful?
Saw a plastic surgeon yesterday because my little finger has dropped possibly a tendon problem and I also have what is known as a Swans neck on my other little finger.
The surgeon also commented that my knuckles were bad and could possibly need replacing with plastic joints which would help to straighten my hands.
I've to go for a ultrasound scan and he will discuss with me about possible surgery, but I am so undecided because operations on my toes in the past have left me in a worse situation.
Hoping someone has experience of this or knows someone who has, and the outcome. Thanks.

[woofgang]

I know for a fact that Prince Phillip did if that helps? I met him in 2020 and his hands were really deformed, massive ulnar drift, both hands. here you see him waving in 2020 and the hand you can see looks completely normal https://slate.com/technology/2021/04/how-prince-philip-became-meme.html

[Barsel]

I didn't know that woofy. His hand looks good in that photo, but I expect he didn't have it done on the NHS. One of my main concerns will be when I would be able to use my hands after surgery as I live on my own.

[woofgang]

Its a fairly long and complex process. Here is a leaflet from Sheffield which will give you some information and although much of it won't apply to you, it may give you a feel for what it might be like and what questions to ask at your appointment. https://publicdocuments.sth.nhs.uk/pil3897.pdf

[Giggsie]

I am waiting to have both hands done should have been last year but still waiting. My brother has had knuckles on both hands operated on for him great success his hands are now straight as is fingers he can make a fist and as he says can put his hands in his pockets which to him was very difficult.They put in silicon things to straighten fingers and you can get use of knuckle joints again.

[Barsel]

Thanks for the link woofy. It looks like the length of time for recovery would be too long for me, so perhaps an operation won't be on the cards.
Giggsie did your brother have someone to look after him after the op, and will you?

[Buenchico]

This, from South Tees Hospitals, might also be relevant:
https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/content/uploads/MICB4601-MCPJ-Silastic-Arthroplasty.pdf

[Giggsie]

Barsel no he didn’t but he managed..... microwave meals sometimes and given his meals at others. He had a frame on his hand which he pulled strings on to exercise his fingers but he could remove it which he managed to dress etc without it. As he said amazing what you can do single handed if no choice. I have a hubby at home which will help me. Rheumatoid on both of our cases of arthritis.

[Barsel]

Thanks for the link Chris. No driving for 6 weeks and no activities for 8 weeks is what I'm afraid of. Will talk to the surgeon after I've had the US scan and see if there are other options.

Giggsie, yes, mine is rheumatoid in my hands, but I also have osteoarthritis in my knees and am on the waiting list for a knee replacement, but I don't think I'll be having that either.
I like living on my own, but it is at times like this when I wish there was someone who could look after me. Never mind eh, there are others a lot worse off.

[Giggsie]

Barsel knee replacement best thing ever I had no problems and great relief not having the pain. Good luck with your ops anything better than pain. Only inconvenience for awhile then you will feel the benefits.

[davebro]

Orthopaedic consultant I saw said - "There is always the chance we will make it worse."

I was considering having ankle fusion surgery but (like the OP) I think I would struggle with 6 weeks on crutches living on my own.

[woofgang]

barsel don't rule out the knee replacement. I used to manage a post op community service for people post hip and knee replacement. It combined personal care, wound care and rehab. Many orthopaedic services have the same kind of set up now. Finger joints are more difficult and rehab takes longer but they may be prepared to do one hand at a time which would leave you a usable hand.

[woofgang]

PS it was 2000 when I met Prince Phillip and he had bad hands

[Peter Pedant]

not having a good day
for dis was - - - arithmetic hands - - ( sight been bad all day)

[Peter Pedant]

foo woofie so the dook's hands er wore out well before the rest of him. Lucky he had so many servants innit?
called foot - men if in royal service apparently

[Peter Pedant]

o god dammit
it should have been
I thought it wwas arithmetic hands but knew that - - - it didnt add up
sozza dam

[woofgang]

PP it wasn't osteo PP had (although he might have had it as well) ulnar drift is caused by rheumatoid arthritis which is an autoimmune condition....kids can get it.

[woofgang]

but hahahahaha for the joke