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Total Wrist fusion

Posted , 2 users are following.

tamara82641
tamara82641

22 years old with AVN of capitate in left hand (not writing hand) for 6 years following a diving accident. Had steroid injections and nerves removed without any pain relief. Seriously considering a total wrist fusion (the only option offered by surgeon). What could I expect life to be like after that operation?

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • lucynewas
    lucynewas tamara82641

    Posted

    Have you been referred to a pain clinic? I would consider that before opting for surgery that will restrict your mobility and may not resolve the pain.
    • tamara82641
      tamara82641 lucynewas

      Posted

      That's a really good point. I work in NHS and refer people to pain clinics often. I have applied all the strategies already without any pain relief (pacing, adapted goal setting etc). I believe it was a case of waiting until my pain wasn't bearable anymore, that was when the wrist fusion would come in. Unfortunately, it has come sooner than expected! It's a big decision, I need to know more about my limitations after surgery?
    • lucynewas
      lucynewas tamara82641

      Posted

      I wonder if nerve block is available? Also are you sleeping ok? May be worth considering low dose amitryptiline at night to reduce pain during the day?
    • lucynewas
      lucynewas tamara82641

      Posted

      I wonder if nerve block is available? Also are you sleeping ok? May be worth considering low dose amitryptiline at night to reduce pain during the day?
    • tamara82641
      tamara82641 lucynewas

      Posted

      I have naproxen, but the side effects are strong. I'll see whether I can get some Amitryptaline. I'm not medically trained but I had the nerves removed in my forearm which I think is a step further than nerve block, but it didn't make any difference. I am offered either a partial or total wrist fusion depending on my next X-Rays and MRI outcome. If the wrist has collapsed it will be total but if not partial fusion.
    • lucynewas
      lucynewas tamara82641

      Posted

      It's worth talking to your GP. pain management had moved on a lot since fibromalgia.
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