Our Summary

This research paper explores infections in the joints of the hand and wrist, which can lead to severe health issues. These infections often show up as redness and swelling in the joint, or the inability to move the joint, usually a few days after an injury that breaks the skin.

Doctors should quickly perform tests, including lab tests and a procedure that involves using a needle to collect fluid from the joint. They can also use various kinds of scans (like X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs) to help figure out what’s wrong.

Once an infection is found, it needs to be treated quickly with surgery to clean out the infected area and antibiotics to kill the bacteria. After the infection is under control, hand therapy is used to help reduce the risk of the joint becoming stiff.

Stiffness is the most common issue after an infection, but other problems can also occur, such as arthritis (joint inflammation), ankylosis (severe joint stiffness), or even amputation.

FAQs

  1. What are the common presenting symptoms of infections in the joints of the hand and wrist?
  2. What diagnostic tools are used to identify infections in the joints of the hand and wrist?
  3. What are the common complications that can occur after treating an infection in the joints of the hand and wrist?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing wrist arthroscopy to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the wrist elevated and applying ice as needed to reduce swelling and pain. They may also recommend starting physical therapy as soon as possible to regain strength and mobility in the wrist. It is important to follow up with the doctor regularly to monitor progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for wrist arthroscopy include those with:

  1. Persistent wrist pain or swelling that does not improve with conservative treatments
  2. Suspected ligament tears or cartilage damage in the wrist
  3. Recurrent wrist dislocations or instability
  4. Chronic wrist conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome
  5. Fractures or other traumatic injuries to the wrist that may require surgical intervention
  6. Evaluation of a mass or cyst in the wrist joint
  7. Evaluation and treatment of infections in the wrist joint

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a hand and wrist specialist to determine if wrist arthroscopy is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before wrist arthroscopy:

  • Patient presents with symptoms such as joint redness, swelling, and pseudoparalysis following a penetrating trauma
  • Diagnostic workup including laboratory evaluation and arthrocentesis is performed
  • Imaging studies such as radiographs, ultrasound, CT, and/or MRI may be utilized for diagnosis
  • Infection is identified and prompt surgical debridement and antibiotics are administered

After wrist arthroscopy:

  • Infection is managed and hand therapy is initiated to prevent stiffness
  • Stiffness is the most common complication following infection
  • Other reported complications may include arthritis, ankylosis, and amputation.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is wrist arthroscopy and how can it help with my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with wrist arthroscopy?
  3. What is the success rate of wrist arthroscopy for treating my specific condition?
  4. What is the recovery process like after wrist arthroscopy?
  5. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the procedure?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to wrist arthroscopy that I should consider?
  7. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my symptoms after wrist arthroscopy?
  8. How many wrist arthroscopy procedures have you performed in the past?
  9. What is the expected outcome for my condition after wrist arthroscopy?
  10. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?

Reference

Authors: Chenoweth B. Journal: Hand Clin. 2020 Aug;36(3):331-338. doi: 10.1016/j.hcl.2020.03.006. PMID: 32586459