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Re:tendon artho vs. joint implant

Joanie1 — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 10:28:00 GMT

Jane - I had mine done in Portsmouth, Dr. Eberhart - he has reputation of being the best surgeon in area for hands.

Re:tendon artho vs. joint implant

Jane1956 — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:28:00 GMT

Joanie....where are you in NH? Did you have this done in Concord? Dartmouth?
Maybe we have the same Dr. LOL

Re:tendon artho vs. joint implant

Joanie1 — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 09:55:00 GMT

I see no one has responded to your questions. I had the tendon graft - S-T-T arthroplasty with tendon graft is what is was specifically called. I live in NH and my MD only offered this or fusion which he said was a longer recovery and less motion obviously. I have been very happy with my recovery - you should read some of the posts on the CMC Arthroplasty thread. Also, try putting into Google " CMC arthroplasty vs. implant". You will get many sites, look for something that lets you know it is an established medical site for more valid info. Take some of the info and pros and cons to your MD next month and ASK QUESTIONS---you will feel better with your final decision being informed.
My surgery was 1/9/07 and yesterday the physical therapist discharged me - see MD Monday for final check. I am still a bit careful, it gets tired(right hand and it is my dominant)but I see improvement and I cannot stress the importance of doing PT and following home routine.
Look on any of the threads dealing with hand/wrist/thumb/CMC joint/CMC artelon spacer(implant) for what others have gone through. Ask your MD about recovery time - not just how long in a cast but when are you back to as much normal as can be expected. Only you know how much time you have to deal with recovery if you work or whatever else demands your hands in life!!!
Good Luck

tendon artho vs. joint implant

kieye1 — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 13:59:15 GMT

I am trying to understand the pros & cons of tendon arthroplasty & joint implant of the basal thumb area. Has anyone had both done?? Why would I elect one over the other. What is the recovery time benefits. Iam seeing a doctor in May and would appreciate alittle knowledge before hand.
Thank you