New Knuckles and Straight Fingers: Metacarpal Phalangeal Joint Replacement Surgery.

My friend gave me before and shortly after photos of her friend Debbie Morris who just had her knuckles replaced in an operation called a metacarpal phalangeal joint replacement.  Debbie agreed to let me use them here so that others could see the successful results she has had. 

                                                            Before surgery
Here is her story:

"I decided to go ahead with the surgery, as my hand had become quite deformed and the pain was constant. The surgery took two and a half hours. My knuckles were replaced with little silicone joints, that are slotted into the finger joints. 

                                      After surgery

The outrigger (below) although it looks like a hindrance, is amazing. Within the week of using it, the movement in my fingers has improved. I am already doing finger exercises! The best thing of all is hardly any pain, other than normal post op, bruises etc. I am having my stitches out next Tuesday and then exercises will begin to reduce the scar as much as possible, as scarring can restrict movement.

                                After surgery. No splint

Here is a picture of outrigger, it's a splint in a sense with metal bits on connected to elastic. It helps prevent them drifting until the muscles are built up in your hands again, as it's the muscles that keep the implants in place. It also allows you to exercise the hand. After 3 months of physio and exercising regularly, I expect to see a massive improvement.

                                                        Hand With Outrigger

I have been told movement won't be as good as in a normal hand and it's questionable if I will be able to make a full fist, but I’m keeping an open mind, anything’s possible!  Recovery is all about listening and doing everything the physios say, they are the experts. For me I think it's the best decision I could have made."

Debbie said she is glad that we think photos are useful. She feels very proud of herself right now.

Gillian says "It gives us some hope for the future when you see results like that."  (I agree with that completely.)

Debbie said she will send another picture when she gets the stitches out so we will be able to see the whole story.
Congratulations Debbie!!