Total Wrist Arthrodesis in Houston, TX

How Does Total Wrist Arthrodesis Address Wrist Pain?

Total wrist arthrodesis is a surgery that fuses the wrist joint bones into a single stable structure. This stops movement at the damaged joint surfaces, which helps relieve mechanical pain. Unlike joint replacement, wrist fusion focuses on strength and stability instead of motion.

It is often helpful for people with advanced arthritis or joint collapse. This surgery is commonly recommended for individuals with severe wrist arthritis caused by:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis after fractures
• Failed prior wrist surgeries
• Chronic instability or deformity

Our hand specialist’s background in reconstructive hand and wrist surgery allows him to evaluate whether total wrist arthrodesis or another treatment option best fits each patient’s condition.

When Does Wrist Fusion Surgery Become the Best Option?

Wrist fusion is usually considered by our Houston hand surgeon when non-surgical care no longer controls pain.

Primary Conditions Treated With Wrist Fusion

• Advanced arthritis
• Severe wrist trauma or instability
• Failed previous wrist surgery
• Joint damage from other causes

When patients report constant aching, swelling, weakness, and limited grip strength, imaging studies, such as X-rays and CT scans, are ordered to confirm the degree of joint damage.

Dr. Dimachkieh carefully reviews joint alignment, bone quality, and hand function before recommending total wrist arthrodesis. His training at Baylor College of Medicine and advanced fellowship education in hand surgery support precise surgical planning for both routine and complex wrist conditions.

How Is Total Wrist Arthrodesis Performed at Our Houston Clinic?

In wrist fusion surgery, our surgeon removes damaged cartilage from the wrist bones. The bones are then aligned and held in place with a plate and screws. As time passes, the bones heal and join together to form one solid structure.

The goal of this procedure is to:

• Stop painful movement in the joint
• Help improve grip strength
• Give your wrist lasting stability
• Let you get back to daily activities with less ongoing wrist pain

Our hand surgeon in Houston uses up-to-date techniques to support bone healing and reduce complication risk. His experience with hand injuries and arthritis means he carefully positions the joint to support good hand function after the fusion.

Recovery and Function After Wrist Fusion

After surgery, your wrist will be protected in a splint or cast as the bones heal. Physical therapy will help you keep your fingers and forearm moving and make your hand stronger.

Even though you may lose some wrist movement, many patients who undergo wrist fusion surgery at our Houston clinic report reduced pain and improved functional use of the hand for everyday tasks.

Risks and Complications of Total Wrist Arthrodesis

Total wrist arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks. These may include infection, delayed bone healing, hardware irritation, or continued discomfort, which will be discussed with you during your consultation.

Our surgeon will review your medical history, imaging studies, and overall health to reduce these risks and determine whether wrist fusion surgery is appropriate for your condition.