Wrist Osteotomy: Radius and Ulna Surgery for Pain Relief by Dr. Pranjal Kodkani
Wrist pain caused by bone deformities, fractures, or misalignment can significantly impact daily activities and mobility. When conservative treatments do not provide relief, wrist osteotomy may be a highly effective surgical option. Dr. Pranjal Kodkani, an expert joint preservation surgeon with specialized training in arthroscopy and sports injury management, offers advanced solutions for wrist pain, including osteotomy of the radius and ulna, two key bones in the wrist joint.
What is Wrist Osteotomy of the Radius and Ulna?
Wrist osteotomy involves surgically realigning the bones of the wrist to restore their normal position and improve joint function. This procedure is often performed on the radius (the forearm bone on the thumb side) and ulna (the bone on the opposite side of the forearm) to correct deformities, fractures, or abnormal bone growth.
The goal of the surgery is to:
- Realign the bones for improved joint function
- Relieve pain caused by abnormal bone positioning
- Preserve wrist mobility and prevent the need for more invasive procedures, such as joint replacement
Why is Wrist Osteotomy of the Radius and Ulna Performed?
Wrist osteotomy is performed to address several conditions, including:
- Malunion of the radius or ulna following fractures: When the bones heal improperly, causing pain and dysfunction.
- Osteoarthritis: When wear and tear on the wrist joint causes pain and reduced mobility.
- Deformities: Structural issues, such as a misaligned radius or ulna, can affect wrist function and cause discomfort.
- Instability: When the wrist joint becomes unstable due to abnormal bone alignment, leading to pain or difficulty in movement.
The procedure is designed to improve the position and alignment of the bones, restore normal joint mechanics, and alleviate pain.
How is Wrist Osteotomy Performed?
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, Dr. Pranjal Kodkani makes an incision to access the radius and ulna bones. The surgeon then cuts and repositions the bones to correct the deformity or misalignment.
In some cases, plates, screws, or pins may be used to secure the bones in their new position. The surgeon will take care to ensure that the wrist joint remains functional while achieving the proper alignment to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Benefits of Wrist Osteotomy
Wrist osteotomy offers numerous benefits, including:
- Pain Relief: By realigning the bones, the surgery reduces stress on the joint and alleviates chronic pain.
- Improved Joint Function: Proper alignment helps the wrist joint move more efficiently, restoring mobility and strength.
- Preservation of the Joint: The procedure can prevent further damage to the wrist joint, delaying or avoiding the need for more invasive treatments such as wrist fusion or replacement.
- Better Alignment: Correcting bone deformities or misalignment improves wrist stability, reducing the risk of further injuries.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After wrist osteotomy, the recovery process typically includes:
- Post-Surgery Rest: Patients may need to wear a cast or brace for several weeks to immobilize the wrist and allow proper healing.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is crucial to restoring strength, flexibility, and function to the wrist joint. Dr. Kodkani will work closely with you to design a customized physical therapy plan.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, with more intense physical tasks taking 3 to 6 months to resume, depending on healing progress.
Risks and Complications
While wrist osteotomy is generally safe, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, such as:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Blood clots
- Non-union or delayed healing of bones
- Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion
Dr. Pranjal Kodkani performs a comprehensive evaluation before surgery to minimize risks and ensure the best possible outcome for each patient.
Who is a Candidate for Wrist Osteotomy?
Wrist osteotomy is ideal for patients who:
- Have malunion or improper healing of wrist fractures
- Experience chronic pain or dysfunction due to osteoarthritis or joint deformities
- Wish to avoid more invasive treatments such as wrist fusion or total joint replacement
- Are physically active individuals who want to preserve wrist function for sports or work activities
If you’re struggling with wrist pain due to misalignment or joint degeneration, consulting with Dr. Kodkani can help determine if wrist osteotomy is the right solution for you.
