SERVICES

Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement)

Wrist, Thumb & Finger Joint Replacements

OVERVIEW

Wrist, thumb, and finger joint replacements are surgical procedures designed to alleviate pain and restore functionality in patients suffering from severe joint conditions, such as arthritis, trauma, or degenerative disorders. Dr Jason du Plessis employs his expertise to bring relief to individuals experiencing debilitating pain and restricted mobility in these critical joints.

Types of Wrist, Thumb, and Finger Joint Replacements:

  1. Wrist joint replacement: Wrist joint replacements involve the surgical removal of damaged or arthritic parts of the wrist joint and replacing them with artificial components. This procedure aims to restore movement and alleviate pain in patients with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or traumatic injuries.
  2. Thumb joint replacement (basal joint arthroplasty): Basal joint arthroplasty is a specialised procedure focused on the base of the thumb joint. Dr du Plessis utilises advanced techniques and prosthetic components to address conditions like osteoarthritis, allowing patients to regain thumb function and experience a significant reduction in discomfort.
  3. Finger joint replacement: Finger joint replacements are intricate procedures designed to replace damaged or arthritic joints in the fingers. Dr Jason du Plessis employs his surgical prowess to provide customised solutions for conditions affecting various finger joints, offering patients renewed dexterity and diminished pain.

Wrist, thumb, and finger joint replacement indications

Wrist, thumb, and finger joint replacements are indicated when conservative treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and splints, fail to provide relief. Dr du Plessis recommends these procedures for individuals with advanced joint degeneration, persistent pain, and limited mobility that significantly impairs their quality of life.

TREATMENT
Dr Jason du Plessis employs a patient-centric approach to treatment, beginning with a thorough evaluation of each individual's condition. If surgery is deemed necessary, he utilises state-of-the-art techniques and prosthetic implants to perform joint replacements. The goal is to restore optimal function while minimising discomfort and downtime for the patient. Post-surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is tailored to ensure a smooth recovery and enhance the long-term success of the joint replacement.

FAQ

How long is the recovery period after joint replacement surgery?
Recovery times can vary, but patients typically undergo a comprehensive rehabilitation plan post-surgery. Dr du Plessis designs individualised recovery programs to ensure a smooth and effective rehabilitation process.
What is the success rate of wrist, thumb, and finger joint replacements?
Success rates are generally high, with the majority of patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved functionality after surgery. Dr du Plessis's expertise and commitment to excellence contribute to the overall success of these procedures.
Are there any risks associated with these joint replacement surgeries?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Dr du Plessis thoroughly discusses these risks with patients during the consultation phase to ensure informed decision-making. Complications are rare, and the benefits of joint replacement often outweigh the potential risks.

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    PUBLICATIONS

    Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
    Classification in Blount’s Disease

    DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.

     

    The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg

    Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.

    Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection

    DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020

     

    Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.

    Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4