Name of the Procedure:

Arthroplasty, interphalangeal joint; each joint

Summary

Arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint is a surgical procedure to replace or repair the joint between the finger bones. This procedure involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and possibly replacing them with artificial components to restore function and relieve pain.

Purpose

Arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint addresses arthritis, joint deformities, or severe joint pain that hinders hand function. The primary goal is to alleviate pain, restore joint function, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Severe arthritis in the finger joints
• Joint deformities
• Persistent pain and swelling not relieved by non-surgical treatments
• Loss of joint function affecting daily activities

Preparation

• Fasting may be required if general anesthesia is used
• Medication adjustments, especially blood thinners
• Preoperative imaging (X-rays, MRI) to assess the joint condition
• Pre-surgical evaluation by the anesthesiologist

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected joint.
3. Joint Exposure: Soft tissues are carefully moved aside to expose the joint.
4. Joint Removal: Damaged joint surfaces are removed.
5. Replacement/Repair: The joint is repaired using either prosthetic implants or other reconstructive techniques.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
7. Dressing: The site is dressed and bandaged.

Tools: Surgical scalpel, prosthetic implants, other reconstructive instruments.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurse
• Operating room technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Implant loosening or failure
• Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion

Benefits

• Pain relief
• Improved joint function
• Enhanced quality of life Improvements can often be noticed within weeks to a few months post-surgery.

Recovery

• Use of a splint or cast to protect the joint
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
• Typically, light activities can be resumed within a few weeks
• Full recovery may take several months

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments (medications, physical therapy)
• Joint fusion (arthrodesis)
• Use of assistive devices
• Each alternative has varying outcomes and may be less effective in severe cases.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will not feel pain due to anesthesia. Post-procedure, there might be some discomfort, which will be managed with pain medications. Swelling and stiffness are common initially, but these usually improve with time and rehabilitation.