The wrist is a highly complex joint that is vital to hand function and mobility. When trauma, arthritis, or structural abnormalities impair movement, wrist reconstruction surgery can restore function and reduce pain. At Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery in Waukesha, WI, Dr. Tracy McCall offers advanced wrist reconstruction procedures to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and daily function.

Understanding Wrist Reconstruction Surgery

Wrist reconstruction surgery is a procedure designed to repair or replace damaged wrist structures, including bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. It is often performed when conservative treatments such as physical therapy, splinting, and medication fail to provide relief.

There are different types of wrist reconstruction procedures, including ligament repairs, joint fusions, and total wrist replacement. The type of surgery recommended depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s functional goals. Regardless of the technique used, the goal remains the same: to restore stability, reduce pain, and improve overall wrist function.

When Is Wrist Reconstruction Surgery Needed?

Wrist reconstruction surgery is recommended for patients with chronic pain or structural damage that limits their ability to perform daily tasks. Several conditions may necessitate this procedure, including:

• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Injury-related joint damage can lead to chronic pain and stiffness, making wrist reconstruction necessary to restore function.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation and joint destruction may require surgical intervention when medications and therapy are ineffective.
• Ligament Tears and Instability: Severe ligament injuries, such as a scapholunate ligament tear, can lead to long-term instability and require reconstructive surgery.
• Kienböck’s Disease: Avascular necrosis of the lunate bone can lead to progressive wrist collapse, necessitating surgical intervention.
• Congenital Wrist Deformities: Some patients are born with wrist abnormalities that limit movement and require correction.

Patients experiencing persistent pain, swelling, limited range of motion, or weakness in the wrist despite conservative treatments should consult a specialist to determine if surgery is the best option.

The Surgical Process and What to Expect

Wrist reconstruction surgery varies depending on the specific condition being treated, but the general process includes the following steps:

• Preoperative Evaluation: Patients undergo imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to assess the extent of wrist damage.
• Anesthesia and Incision: The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision to access the wrist joint.
• Repair or Reconstruction: Depending on the severity of damage, the surgeon may repair ligaments, fuse bones, or replace damaged joint surfaces with an artificial implant.
• Closure and Immobilization: After the procedure, the incision is closed, and the wrist is immobilized using a cast or splint to allow healing.

Surgery typically takes one to three hours, and most patients can return home the same day or after a short hospital stay.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from wrist reconstruction surgery requires patience and adherence to post-operative care instructions. The wrist is immobilized for several weeks to allow initial healing, followed by a structured rehabilitation plan.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength and flexibility. Gradual exercises help restore range of motion, prevent stiffness, and rebuild muscle support around the wrist joint. Most patients experience significant improvement within three to six months, though full recovery may take up to a year.

Pain management is also an important aspect of recovery. Patients are typically prescribed pain medications initially, but as healing progresses, ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and gentle movement help minimize discomfort.

Expected Outcomes and Long-Term Functionality

Wrist reconstruction surgery has high success rates, with many patients experiencing long-term pain relief and improved function. The specific outcomes depend on the procedure type performed and the initial condition’s severity.

For patients undergoing ligament repair or joint stabilization, the wrist often regains near-normal function, allowing them to perform everyday tasks with ease. In cases of total wrist replacement or fusion, there may be some limitations in movement, but pain reduction and improved strength compensate for restricted mobility.

Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding repetitive strain and using wrist supports, can help maintain surgical results. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon ensure that healing is progressing as expected and that complications such as stiffness or implant wear are promptly addressed.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While wrist reconstruction surgery is generally safe, certain symptoms may indicate complications requiring medical attention. Patients should contact their surgeon if they experience:

• Excessive swelling, redness, or warmth around the surgical site
• Persistent pain that does not improve with medication
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
• Difficulty moving the wrist beyond the expected recovery limitations

Early intervention in case of complications ensures better outcomes and prevents long-term issues.

Regaining Confidence in Wrist Mobility

Wrist reconstruction surgery can be life-changing for individuals struggling with chronic pain and functional limitations. By restoring strength and stability, patients can return to their daily activities with improved comfort and confidence. At Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery, Dr. Tracy McCall and her team provide personalized treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives the best possible care for long-term wrist health.

Sources

Kakar, S., & Berger, R. A. (2012). Wrist Reconstruction and Arthroplasty: Current Trends. Journal of Hand Surgery.

Nagle, D. J., & Wolfe, S. W. (2011). Ligament Injuries of the Wrist: Surgical and Non-Surgical Management. Orthopedic Clinics of North America.

Shin, A. Y., & Bishop, A. T. (2002). Wrist Arthrodesis: Indications and Techniques. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.