Name of the Procedure:

Arthroplasty, Interphalangeal Joint; with Prosthetic Implant, Each Joint
Common Name: Finger Joint Replacement Surgery

Summary

Arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint with a prosthetic implant is a surgical procedure where damaged or arthritic interphalangeal finger joints are replaced with artificial implants. This helps restore movement and reduce pain in the affected finger joints.

Purpose

Medical Condition: This procedure addresses severe arthritis, joint deformities, or traumatic injuries in the finger joints.
Goals: The primary goals are to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance the overall hand function of the patient.

Indications

• Severe pain in the finger joints that interferes with daily activities.
• Significant joint deformity.
• Loss of motion and function in the fingers.
• Inadequate relief from conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments in medications, especially blood thinners, as advised by the physician.
• Pre-operative diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the condition of the joints.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is comfortable.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected interphalangeal joint.
3. Joint Preparation: The damaged parts of the joint are carefully removed.
4. Implant Insertion: A prosthetic implant is inserted into the joint space.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied.

Tools and Technology Used: Surgical scalpels, prosthetic implants specific to finger joints, and possibly imaging equipment for precision.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 1 to 2 hours per joint.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Scrub tech

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, stiffness, or swelling.
• Rare Complications: Prosthetic joint failure, nerve damage, blood clots.

Benefits

• Pain relief usually noticeable within a few days to weeks.
• Improved joint function and range of motion.
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities without discomfort.

Recovery

• Initial post-operative care includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to enhance recovery.
• Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Medication for pain management.
• Physical therapy and exercises.
• Joint fusion surgery, which limits joint movement but stabilizes the finger.
• Pros of Alternatives: Less invasive, quicker recovery (for non-surgical options).
• Cons: May not provide the same level of pain relief or functional improvement as arthroplasty.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients will generally not feel pain due to anesthesia.
• After the Procedure: Expect some post-surgical pain and swelling, managed with medication and care.
• Pain Management: Pain is usually managed with prescription painkillers and over-the-counter medications, reducing significantly within a few weeks.