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Pain management after thumb CMC suspension sling arthroplasty

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pat60462
pat60462

I am considering the above procedure on my dominant thumb. They tell me there will be significant post-op pain for up to 6 months. I am unable to take any NSAIDS due to another condition - that is, no ibuprofen, aspirin, Aleve whether topically or by mouth. I don't want to take opiates/narcotics if I can avoid them bc they give me nasty constipation. Codeine is also out (vomiting). Tylenol is not something to take for weeks and months at a time due to potential liver damage. So I am at a loss to understand how I would manage the pain after the first 3 days and for the next 6 months. My doctor has no ideas except to tough it out. Has anyone faced this situation without NSAIDS or narcotics, and if so, what helped you?

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4 Replies

  • Anhaga
    Anhaga pat60462

    Posted

    Sorry, I have no experience of this surgery.

    Is there a pain management clinic in or near your community? They may have suggestions. I do know there are non-medical methods to relieve pain (TENS machine springs to mind) but I don't know how effective they are post-surgery. But a pain management specialist would know. And maybe even the appropriate application of cold and/or heat would be helpful.

    I assume because you are considering surgery you've already explored all the non-surgical options?

  • anne40039
    anne40039 pat60462

    Posted

    Hi I'm 9 days post op following a Trapeziectomy with Arthrex mini tightrope procedure. It has been quite painful and I was given oral Morphine and Codeine post op. I used the Morphine for the first few days and it really helped. I also added Paracetamol and Ibuprofen as prescribed. I am now currently taking Paracetamol, Codeine and Ibuprofen. I had a nerve block to the arm which helped with immediate post op pain as my arm was numb. You could ask if they do a longer acting nerve block for the day after also sometimes they do the arm block with the GA for pain relief. The other option would be opioids plus lots of laxatives eg Laxido or movicol type with a stimulant laxative also( and take lots). I'm in the UK so can only get strong painkillers from the GP. The pain is better by the day.

    I can't advice re the outcome of procedure as it's too soon, but to be pain free long term is my goal.

    PS you'd have to take a lot of paracetamol ( over the recommended dose) for a very long time to damage your liver. My mam had Rheumatoid and took it for years with no effect on her liver.

    I hope this helps

  • Anhaga
    Anhaga pat60462

    Posted

    Re acetaminophen (paracetamol, tylenol). Some people develop liver problems very quickly, even when taking no more than the maximum recommended dose. We are all different. I would err on the side of caution.

  • victoria13635
    victoria13635 pat60462

    Posted

    I just had this surgery done 4 days ago. I am not sure the exact procedure, Dr said "2 screws and suspension".

    i was given the nerve block (i didnt like it) and it was very sore the next day but it is only a little achey now. Not nearly as bad as I expected,

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