Joint fusion is used to resolve the pain of severely arthritic joints in the hand and wrist. Joint fusion permanently stops movement at the wrist. The hand surgeon makes an incision along the top of the wrist to access the joint. The arthritic surface is removed and the bones on each side of the joint are fused together. The bones are secured together using pins, a plate, or screws. The incision is closed with sutures, bandaged, and placed in a split to protect the joint.
It typically takes about 6 – 8 weeks for the ends of the bone to heal together into a solid fusion. The splint is worn until the joint has fused. Our orthopaedic surgeons at Emory recommend elevating the hand after surgery to decrease pain and swelling.
If you have questions, or to make an appointment, call: 404-778-3350.