Q: What is Hand Joint Replacement?
A: Hand joints, like any other joint of the human body, can become arthritic and painful over time. While not everyone will be subject to this, it is not unusual to develop a severe case of arthritis in one or more joints of the hands. With there being a high level of usage on the small joints of the hand, many people deal with severe aches and pain. This is often associated with degenerative joint disease of the hands. In the distant past, fusion of these arthritic joints was the accepted treatment. By permanently immobilizing the joint, pain levels were reduced. Over time, technology and materials have progressed to allow for the development of hand joint replacement.
Hand joint replacement surgery has existed for a long time. The old standby joint replacement was made out of a silicone-type material. Although they helped in decreasing the amount of pain suffered, these joint replacements lacked stability and longevity. With high demands on silicone hand joint replacements, they had a tendency to fail and start falling apart after 10 to 15 years. Fortunately, the technology for hand joint replacement has advanced. Similar to a knee or hip replacement, metal and polyethylene joints are now used.
The newer hand joint replacements allow for absence of pain as well as the return to a previous level of function. These joint replacements are strategically designed to mimic the contour and function of the normal hand joint. The metal and polyethylene joints are used to replace the joints of the fingers and thumb. With high usage, it is possible to wear out the polyethylene or plastic component of these joint replacements over an extended period of time. However, their life expectancy far exceeds the silicone joint replacements of the past.
This technology for hand joint replacement is currently being used at Bailey Medical Center in Owasso by Dr. Jon Orjala, an orthopedic surgeon. He is one of a few surgeons in Oklahoma that is certified in this type of hand joint replacement. He has been performing these procedures for approximately 18 years and has had excellent results.
If you are one of the many who suffer from severe hand pain because of arthritis, you may want to give consideration to hand joint replacement surgery.
Dave Stoll, PA-C
Orthopedic Care in the office of Jon Orjala, D.O.
Utica Park Clinic – Owasso
10512 N. 110th East Ave., Suite 220
Owasso, OK 74055
918.376.8959
