Search
Online Health Information
HomeHospitalsClinicsSpecialty Centers
Programs & ServicesFind a DoctorA-Z Health LibraryClasses & EventsQuality MeasuresAbout UsFoundationVolunteeringCareer OpportunitiesFamily Medicine ResidencyMaps & Directions
For WomenFor MenFor SeniorsFor Children

For PatientsFor the CommunityFor Health Care Professionals
Home Specialty Centers Bone & Joint Center Bone & Joint Center Services Hand/Wrist/Elbow
Hand/Wrist/Elbow Procedures

Joint Replacement
Joint replacement surgery involves replacing a destroyed joint with an artificial joint. In the case of a joint replacement, the new joint is most commonly composed of silicone rubber, metal or the patient's own tissues, such as a portion of tendon. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is very common. Joint replacement surgery in the hand is typically used in treating severe arthritis.

Carpal Tunnel Decompression and Nerve Decompression (open and arthroscopic)
There are many treatments for carpal tunnel. The goals of surgery are to relieve symptoms and prevent progressive disability. Your doctor can help you decide whether open or arthroscopic is right for you.

Conventionally, surgery has been performed using an open technique, with the aim being decompression of the carpal tunnel. More recently, an arthroscopic technique has meant that surgical decompression. The major advantage of the arthroscopic technique is that the procedure can be performed under local anesthetic, meaning that it can be done on an outpatient basis. The arthroscopic technique requires two small incisions—one in the wrist and one in the palm of the hand—and a very small camera. Following surgery, the wrist is usually supported in a splint for between 4 and 6 weeks.

Dupuytren’s Contracture
Dupuytren's contracture is a thickening of deep tissue which passes from the palm into the fingers. Shortening of this tissue causes "bands," which pull the fingers into the palm. The cause of this is unknown but it tends to run in families. The condition is progressive and the only treatment is surgery. If untreated, the fingers will be gradually pulled into the palm.

DeQuervain’s Release
DeQuervain’s tendonitis is a condition brought on by irritation or swelling of the tendons found along the thumb side of the wrist. The irritation causes the lining around the tendon to swell, changing the shape of the compartment, which makes it difficult for the tendons to move as they should. The swelling can cause pain and tenderness along the thumb side of the wrist, usually noticed when forming a fist, grasping or gripping things, or turning the wrist. When symptoms are severe or do not improve, surgery may be recommended. The surgery opens the lining to make more room for the irritated tendons.

Joint Fusions
A fusion of any joint is designed to eliminate pain by allowing the bones to grow together, or fuse, into one solid bone. Doing so reduces pain but also reduces the functional range of motion of the joint. Fusions are used in many joints and were very common before the invention of artificial implants for the replacement of arthritic joints. Even today, joint fusions are still very commonly used for treating the pain of arthritis.

Arthroplasty
Arthroplasty is done to restore motion to a joint and function to the muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue structures that control the joint. A prosthesis (made of various types of metal or silicone) is implanted into the joint that has symptoms of pain, limited motion or joint dislocation.

Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure used to visualize, diagnose and treat problems inside a joint. A fiberoptic scope and small instruments are inserted through small puncture wounds instead of an open incision. The scope is connected to a television monitor where the surgeon can perform the repair under video control. They can then determine the amount or type of injury, and repair or correct the problem, if necessary.

Contact Us
1406 Sixth Ave. N.
St. Cloud, MN 56303
(320) 255-5606
(320) 656-7079 fax
Home | Site Map | Contact Us | Disclaimer & Privacy Policy | Maps & Directions