Houston OfficeFondren orthopedic group
Wrist Ligament Reconstruction in Houston, TX
Disease Overview
The human wrist is made up of small bones joined together by a band of tough fibrous tissue known as ligaments. Ligaments also join the bones in our wrist to the radius, ulna, and metacarpal bones, and aid in the proper functioning of our wrist.
Any injury to the ligaments disturbs the normal alignment of our wrist bones, causing them to wear out faster, resulting in significant pain and eventually leading to arthritis.
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Indications of Wrist Ligament Reconstruction
Surgical treatment in the form of wrist ligament reconstruction may be indicated in cases where the wrist ligament is completely torn. The ligament will usually need to be reconstructed when ligament damage is noted after a period of 6 months or more after the initial injury.
Wrist Ligament Reconstruction Procedure
Ligament reconstruction procedure can be performed as day surgery under local or general anesthesia.
During the procedure, your surgeon first makes an incision over your wrist joint to locate the torn ligament. Once located, a tendon graft (tissue obtained from a donor part, usually the palmaris longus tendon of the same wrist) is used to replace the torn ligament. The tendon is harvested through the bottom of your wrist via one or two minor incisions. Your surgeon may then place metal pins to support the repair while healing occurs. The surgical incisions are closed and dressing is applied. The pins are usually removed 6 to 8 weeks after the surgery. Your doctor will guide you through your postoperative period including wound care, medications, activity restrictions and follow-up.
Postoperative Care after Wrist Ligament Reconstruction
Your surgeon will place a cast or a splint that immobilizes the wrist until it is healed completely. The operated wrist should be elevated to prevent excessive swelling and pain. Ice wrapped in a cloth can be applied over the operated area that helps to reduce swelling. You will be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection and medications to reduce pain. Always remember to keep the operated area clean and dry to prevent infection. Exercises are performed to strengthen the wrist and rebuild your strength.
Risks and Complications of Wrist Ligament Reconstruction
Some of the risks possible after wrist ligament reconstruction include infection, swelling, damage to the nearby nerves or tissues during surgery, irritation from foreign material such as pins, and stiffness, which can be treated through postoperative rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might I need wrist ligament reconstruction?
Ligaments hold the small bones of the wrist in proper alignment. When a ligament is injured, the bones can wear out faster, causing significant pain and eventually leading to arthritis, which may make reconstruction necessary.
When is surgery indicated for a torn wrist ligament?
Wrist ligament reconstruction is typically indicated when the ligament is completely torn. Reconstruction is usually needed when ligament damage is identified 6 months or more after the initial injury.
How is wrist ligament reconstruction performed?
The procedure is done as a day surgery under local or general anesthesia. Dr. Luo makes an incision to locate the torn ligament, then replaces it with a tendon graft—usually the palmaris longus tendon from the same wrist—and may place metal pins to support the repair while it heals.
When are the pins removed after surgery?
The metal pins used to support the repair are usually removed 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will guide you through wound care, medications, activity restrictions, and follow-up during this period.
What does recovery after wrist ligament reconstruction involve?
A cast or splint immobilizes the wrist until it is fully healed, and the wrist should be elevated to limit swelling and pain. You may apply ice, will be prescribed antibiotics and pain medication, and will perform exercises to rebuild wrist strength.
What are the risks of wrist ligament reconstruction?
Possible risks include infection, swelling, damage to nearby nerves or tissues, irritation from the pins, and stiffness. Stiffness can usually be addressed through postoperative rehabilitation.
Randy Y. Luo, MD, MBA
Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Hand & Upper Extremity Specialist