Should surgery be considered for severe hand deformity to improve function?
Surgery can be a viable option when severe hand deformity from RA limits your daily activities and other treatments haven't been effective. If medications or therapy haven't prevented or slowed joint damage, your doctor may recommend surgical Show Full Answer
Should surgery be considered for severe hand deformity to improve function?
Surgery can be a viable option when severe hand deformity from RA limits your daily activities and other treatments haven't been effective. If medications or therapy haven't prevented or slowed joint damage, your doctor may recommend surgical procedures to help restore function.
Several surgical options exist depending on your specific situation:
- Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Removes damaged joint parts and replaces them with prosthetic materials. A myRAteam member shared, "I have had five hand surgeries. I can now move my fingers."
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Fuses joints into positions that improve function and relieve pain, though it does limit some mobility afterward. One member reported being "very pleased" after thumb fusion surgery for swan-neck deformity.
- Trigger finger release: Helps if fingers are stuck in bent positions by releasing blocked tendons.
- Carpal tunnel release: Relieves nerve pressure if you've lost feeling in your fingers.
Important considerations: Surgery carries risks including bleeding, infection, and pain. It won't cure RA or stop disease progression, but it can help you regain function and reduce pain. The decision depends on the severity of your deformity, how much it affects your daily life, and your overall health.
Talk with your rheumatologist or orthopedic surgeon about which surgical option might work best for your specific hand deformity and functional goals.
February 12
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
