Louise, I found a rehab paper that has what my doctor did to my left hand. He did a thumb MP fusion (I have two screws in my thumb), He replaced my MP joints with artificial ones (index to small finger arthroplasty with extensor tendon realignment) and he did a distal ulna resection. I had always had pain in both my wrist and thumb, but that is gone. I hope this helps. Good luck!!

I had the fingers of my right hand straightened 12 years ago. They need it again. Four months ago I had my left hand done. I had my thumb fused, my fingers straightened and part of my ulna removed. I am ecstatic! I have almost full use of my hand and I can even make a full fist. The best thing is, no more pain!!! It's also functional again. Doing rehab is essential, but I am so happy. Next year I will redo the right one.

Louise, I too have "strange looking fingers" (smile) but as long as I can do everyday things, I'll just keep on doing them. My grip is not nearly as strong as it once was, but thanks to an electric Jar Opener, a pair of pliers, my husbands help, things get done. I would rather have my fingers bent, than have them pinned and not be able to bend them. Please think about it before you even consider surgery.. That should be your last solution to your problem.. Soak your hands in hot water, do hand exercises, use the pain creams that are available, and keep using them even though they hurt. Also rubbing your fingers helps sometimes. Take care and good luck.. Hope this has helped you a little.. Mary

I have severe deformities in both my hands but, there not painful and I still can do most things so I almost never thought about surgery. If I got surgery for every joint that was crooked, I'd never leave the hospital, lol. I still use a computer daily and do physical hand things like rock climbing. If you're in pain, I'd consider it.

Louise, I'm having trouble locating my surgery papers, but I'll find them and give you all the particulars. Somewhere on this site is a picture of what my hand looked like prior to surgery. Huge difference, both in looks and functionality. I'll get back to you as soon as I can. :)