About Finger Joint Replacement

Patients may develop a form of arthritis or degenerative arthritis within the joints of the fingers. This cartilage wears out within the metacarpo-phalangeal joints (the joints at the knuckles “MCPJ”) and the proximal interphalangeal joints (the middle joints on your fingers “PIPJ”). This treatment is only offered/indicated when all conservative measures fail to relieve pain and disability of the patient.

Signs & Symptoms

It is common that the patient suffers from ongoing pain, stiffness and inflammation within the effected joints. Patients can also find it difficult completing simple everyday tasks i.e. gripping and holding objects.

A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith will review your medical history. He will perform a physical examination through consultation and obtain x-rays of your hands.

Treatment Options

What happens during the surgery?

The surgery is normally performed under general anaesthetic. A tourniquet is applied to the arm to prevent blood flow in and out of the arm. An excision is made at the back of the finger and the soft tissues are spread out the expose the joint.

Once the joint has been opened up, the degenerative bone surfaces are resected. A/Prof Lawson-Smith will shape and insert the silicon prosthesis so it fits snugly in both ends of the finger. The nearby ligaments are repositioned and the finger is sutured.

X-rays are taken to check on the position of the implant. A splint and bandages are applied.

What should I expect after surgery?

The surgery is normally a day case. You will not be able to drive after your surgery due to the anaesthetic and the procedure. On collection from the hospital, you will require someone to stay with you for up to 48 hours post-operatively. You will be given a referral to see a Hand Therapist for treatment around 1 week post operatively. Therapy is required to regain mobility and strength of the finger joint. It is imperative to keep your wounds clean, dry and sterile.

A post-operative appointment is allocated to you at the time of surgical booking by A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith rooms. This normally occurs around 2 – 3 weeks after your surgery. On this day, you will be required to have an x-ray to check on your progress. A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith and/or the practice nurse will remove any remaining sutures and also check on your wounds.

If you require any further analgesia for pain management that initially prescribed on discharge from hospital, you will need to visit your GP.

Risks & Concerns

The associated risks of surgery include:

Infection
Scar
Pain
Stiffness
Swelling
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Need for further surgery

Failure to relieve symptoms
Worsening pain
Bleeding
Neurovascular deficit or injury
Risk of anaesthetic
Prosthesis defect/complication
Failure

Joint replacements have a finite life which A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith will discuss with you.

If you experience any problems or have any concerns following your surgery, please do not hesitate to contact the office. A/Prof Lawson-Smith’s staff will ensure that A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith is kept informed of what is occurring and will advise you the best course of action.

If you are unable to reach the office, please do not hesitate to contact your General Practitioner or if it an emergency, please present to your nearest Emergency Department.

Finger Joint Replacement - PIPJ or MCPJ

About Finger Joint Replacement

Signs & Symptoms

Treatment Options

Risks & Concerns

A/Prof Matthew Lawson-Smith