Connect
Have you had digital interphalangeal joint fusion?
Hello, I have a destroyed left middle finger DIP joint from infection resulting in a moderately painful/non usable mallet type finger at the end of my finger and am contemplating digital interphalangeal joint fusion surgery using a screw to fuse the DIP joint. I am non arthritic and in good general health, so I do not have other arthritic joints to compare this to. If you have had this surgery, how did it go? Would you have it again? Any info is good info. I am 68 and questioning whether to have the surgery or live with it for the rest of my life. Many thanks!
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Bones, Joints & Muscles Support Group.
Connect
Hello @wpchrencik. I'd like to invite @fredflorida as they talked about their experience with a DIP surgery here, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/small-surgery-on-finger-still-hurts-after-4-months/?pg=1#comment-725423.
@wpchrencik, is your "mallet type" finger because of your DIP joint injury preventing you from any day-to-day activities or hobbies? Is this why you are considering a surgery?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi Justin,
Thank you or your interest in my situation. Yes my finger injury and resulting mallet finger prevents me from using my hand to lift things - a box, a mattress to make a bed, etc. Any pressure I put on the finger pushing it against the joint brings some pain. I am thinking by having the surgery to straighten my finger will give me back some of the ability to normally use my hand. I have confidence in my hand surgeon, but I will be better able to determine if this surgery is right for me by hearing from patients who have had it, thus my question. I am anxious to look at the website you sent. Many thanks. Bill Chrencik