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Reconstructive Hand Surgery for Arthritic Joints
Rheumatoid Reconstruction
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disorder that affects the joints throughout your body. It differs from osteoarthritis in that, instead of being a matter of lifelong “wear and tear”, rheumatoid arthritis continually attacks these joints. It affects the soft tissues and cells that lubricate and line your joints, causing the cartilage to slowly be destroyed and your ligaments and tendons to stretch out.
Rheumatoid reconstructive surgery can correct cosmetic conditions and functional concerns alike, relieve pressure and pain, and restore function to these arthritic joints.
Schedule An Appointment!
Dr. Abeyewardene
OSSO South
10001 S. Western, Suite 101
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Common Arthritis Signs, Symptoms and Complaints
Rheumatoid Arthritis has several telltale signs. Here are some common symptoms and complaints you might notice:
- Pain from a dull ache to sharp pain in your hands and finger joints
- Finger deformity
- Swelling of your hands and finger joints
- Grating, grinding and cracking feelings
- Limited range of motion in your fingers or wrists
- Small, bony nodules on your joints
- Deformed joints in your hands and fingers
- Morning hand pain and stiffness
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How Dr. Abeye Treats Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is Treatable
At Dr. Abeye’s clinic, we always begin with the most conservative, non-surgical approaches, increasing intervention levels as necessary to achieve relief from pain, increased strength and range of motion. Responding to rheumatoid arthritis requires thoughtful decision-making, and Dr. Abeye will be by your side to educate you on the advantages and challenges of each and every option.
Non-Operative Rheumatoid Arthritis Intervention: Bracing
Bracing can help arthritic joints rest, encouraging pain relief and healing.
Non-Surgical Rheumatoid Arthritis Intervention: Steroid Injection
Steroid injections can reduce pain and inflammation in the joints, especially during arthritic flares.
Surgical Rheumatoid Reconstruction Treatment: Tendon Transfer
There are many ways to treat the deformities that occur with rheumatoid arthritis. In this condition, the fingers can deform and become non-functional. Treatment for this can range from moving tendons from one finger to another or to even reconstruct the tendon itself that helps straighten the finger.
Surgical Rheumatoid Reconstruction Treatment: Fusion
Also known as arthrodesis, joint fusion involves removing the diseased cartilage, trimming the ends of the intersecting bones, and mechanically fusing them together. This eliminates pain, but also eliminates range of motion for the joint, because it is permanently fused together. Fusion can be partial or complete.
Surgical Rheumatoid Reconstruction Treatment: Replacement
A joint replacement replaces the diseased, arthritic cartilage and joint bones with new, mechanical components that eliminate pain while preserving range of motion. The new joint is usually made from silicone rubber, metal and plastic or your own tissue.
What to Expect
When you schedule an appointment with Dr. Abeye to investigate rheumatoid reconstruction in our Oklahoma City clinic, you can expect a thorough examination of your hands and wrists, imaging (if necessary), a conversation about your symptoms and education about what is likely happening. You’ll receive a diagnosis, plan of action and any necessary braces or medications.
If you’re ready for relief, give us a call to schedule your appointment.
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Hand, Wrist & Elbow Specialist
Hand, Wrist & Elbow Orthopedic Expertise
About Our Office
Dr. Abeye is an experienced orthopedic hand surgeon, dedicated to – and fascinated by – the intricacies of the fingers, hands, wrists and elbows.
Patient Info
Find information about splint and cast care, pain management and more on our patient resource page.
Reach Out
Our office staff is here to help with whatever you need. Please don’t hesitate to call with your questions, concerns, or just to schedule your next appointment!