What is WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty?
WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure designed to restore function and alleviate pain in individuals with severe wrist arthritis or complex distal radius fractures. This technique preserves partial joint articulation while replacing the damaged segment with a prosthetic implant, maintaining wrist motion and stability.
Indications of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty
WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty is considered in conditions including:
- Post-traumatic arthritis or degenerative osteoarthritis affecting the radiocarpal joint.
- Irreparable distal radius fractures, particularly in older individuals with low bone quality.
- Rheumatoid arthritis with isolated joint damage.
- Failed previous wrist surgeries, such as proximal row carpectomy or partial arthrodesis.
Surgical Technique of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty
The surgical steps of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty include:
- Preoperative Planning: Detailed imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, to assess joint damage and plan implant positioning.
- Anesthesia and Incision: The procedure is performed under regional or general anesthesia. A dorsal or volar approach is used, depending on the surgical indication and implant type.
- Bone Preparation: The affected segment of the distal radius is resected, preserving soft tissue attachments where possible.
- Implant Placement: A hemiarthroplasty implant, typically composed of metal or pyrocarbon, is secured into the prepared bone site.
- Soft Tissue Balancing: Ligamentous structures and surrounding soft tissues are adjusted to optimize stability and range of motion.
- Closure and Postoperative Care: The incision is closed, and a splint is applied to protect the joint during initial healing.
Advantages of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty
WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty has various advantages including:
- Joint Preservation: Unlike total wrist arthroplasty, hemiarthroplasty maintains some natural joint structures, improving proprioception and function.
- Improved Range of Motion: Individuals typically experience better mobility compared to wrist fusion.
- Pain Relief: Effective in reducing pain while allowing functional use of the wrist.
- Shorter Recovery Period: Less invasive than total arthroplasty or fusion, leading to faster rehabilitation.
Complications and Risks of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty
Potential complications of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty include:
- Implant loosening or migration.
- Persistent pain or reduced range of motion.
- Periprosthetic fractures.
- Infection or soft tissue irritation.
Rehabilitation and Outcomes of WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty
Postoperative rehabilitation for WristMotion® Hemiarthroplasty includes:
- Immobilization: Short-term splinting for 2–4 weeks.
- Physical Therapy: Gradual range of motion exercises starting after splint removal, followed by strengthening exercises.
- Return to Activities: Most individuals regain functional wrist motion within 3–6 months, with pain reduction and improved dexterity.
