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Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: May 13 7:28am | Replies (10)
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Fusion is permanent. Replacement may be a option. There are some excellent hand surgeons in this country. Get a second opinion. If you live near DUKE in North Carolina I would recommend their hand docs for a second opinion. Replacement gives you the option of functionality of your hand. Fusion permanently takes that option away.
Replies to "Fusion is permanent. Replacement may be a option. There are some excellent hand surgeons in this..."
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Absolutely!!! Fusing is old style - if the joint hurts, take it out or fuse it, and it stops hurting. Don't bother with the fact that you can't use it any more. I have had 3 local surgeons advise fusing my big toe due to arthritis, bone spurs, etc in that joint. I was already struggling with a joint that didn't bend right and hurt every time I walked.
I found a better sureon "Hell no we don't fuse joints!" She cleaned it out, repaired what she could, and put it back together. That was 4 years ago. I am still walking straight and pain free, and doing the difficult mountain hikes!
Get as many opinions as you need until you find the surgeon that really understands your issue.
GregV