Finger/Thumb 2 years Post-Op L thumb CMC arthroplasty with LRTI

Macknit

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I'm new to this section, but a senior in the TKR department, I didn't even think to look at the other joints area? I had this thumb surgery on December 14, 2017. I'm now at a point where I am considering a revision surgery for the thumb arthroplasty, after a series of events over the last 2 years. Is there anyone with experience of this revision surgery?

I progressed fairly well for the first 8 weeks after this surgery, then about 3 months post-op a chiropractor accidentally pulled on my operative thumb when helping me sit up. I heard a pop, felt some pain, and slowly over the next year I had more pain and swelling than what I initially had when I decided to have the surgery.

Last February 2019, I fell on ice and caught myself with the same L hand. More pain and swelling ensued, but no broken bones. I've revisited the same OS 4 different times (including after the slip) only to be told give it more time.... I finally went for a 2nd opinion, because the pain and swelling is still there, continuously.

The new OS felt I have some metacarpal subsidence, but within a "normal"range. He did say to try to give it more time because of the TKR and to revisit him in February. It still hasn't improved in the pain department, but he did say two things: 1) that revision surgeries are much more difficult surgeon- and recovery-wise and 2) different hardware and procedures are used.

Any thoughts about a revision surgery for the thumb?
 
I don't know of anyone on the forum who has had revision hand surgery. I would guess it's not a very common thing. But, perhaps it would be a good idea to get one or two more opinions before you have it done. It makes sense that the revision would be more complex than a primary surgery....and that the recovery might be a bit more challenging as well. Part of your decision on having this done now would be how the thumb is functioning for you and the level of pain you're having. I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this.
 
Welcome to Other @Macknit !
My left foot has 2 threads here .
I hope time gives you relief, but agree w Jamie about getting more Professional input.
PS Fyi, Jane Fonda had one of her thumbs replaced! A knee and a hip also
 
@Jamie thanks for the input... you make excellent points: My thumb is always a dull ache, but there is some swelling and more pain periodically, usually 2-3x per week at a minimum. It is much weaker and cannot grasp very well, I can type with it...using the space bar. When I do my knitting it gets quite sore. So I'd say 70% functionality. It really hasn't improved since my fall on the ice.

@marieltha thank you, I'm so pleased to hear about ole'Jane. I haven't heard about her in a long time... It must be the blessing of age and arthritis, I presume!?

I'm going to check and see if we can find an additional hand specialist in our smallish town!
 
Even if you have to drive a bit, it would be worth it to talk to someone for an independent assessment. I see there are some hand specialists in Salem, Oregon, which is about 3 hours from you. Be sure whoever you see has a lot of experience with joint replacements in the hand (it may be worded as hand reconstruction on a website).

I did see there were 2 ortho clinics in your smallish town, so you could see someone at whichever clinic is not the one you've been going to. But, quite honestly....for something this unique, I think you'd be better served to talk with someone in a larger city who may have more expertise in this area.
 
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