Thinking about having a darrach procedure.: Hi, I was... - NRAS

NRAS

37,263 members46,133 posts

Thinking about having a darrach procedure.

Melly68 profile image
10 Replies

Hi,

I was wondering whether anyone out there has had a darrach's procedure. I have put off having an operation on my left wrist for two years. My RA is quite well controlled apart from some deformity, damage and pain in my wrist. If anyone has had this operation I would be really grateful to hear from you. Did it reduce your pain? Was it worth having done?

Written by
Melly68 profile image
Melly68
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
10 Replies
sylvi profile image
sylvi

Sorry i have never heard of this operation.xxxx

Beverley_F profile image
Beverley_F

HI, I've had this done on both my wrists, I can honestly say its the most painful thing I've had done but it is worth it in the long term. You just need to be prepared with pain meds..

Melly68 profile image
Melly68 in reply toBeverley_F

Thank you Beverly. As I said, I was offered it two years ago but didn't go through with it as my rheumologist said my wrist joint would mostly fuse and I wouldn't have any pain. When he saw me again it stated it could take years!! After the initial pain of the op, did the op reduce your pain? What is the strength in your wrists like and hand function? Trying to weight it all up.

Beverley_F profile image
Beverley_F in reply toMelly68

The op has definitely reduced the pain and I do not think it has really reduced the strength, I can still move them as I did just a little restricted. I have had all my knuckles replaced so have to be careful what I do with my hands but I'm sure If I hadn't I could use them as normal. Hope it helps you decide I'm glad I had mine done.

Richgirl profile image
Richgirl in reply toBeverley_F

Hello Beverley, I'm not sure I can do anything about my fingers. My right hand fingers are pretty bad. 3 of my fingers are laying down & I can't straighten them up anymore. So I can't hold things in that hand. Can they fix this? I asked my RA doc & she said I would have to ask a surgeon. She wasn't able to answer me. So that confused me a bit. Cause I thought, wouldn't she know? Anyway is this the type of surgery you & Melly we're talking about? Thank you🌻

Beverley_F profile image
Beverley_F in reply toRichgirl

HI, It depends if the problem is with your knuckles, if it is then yes they can help it is worth seeing an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in hands. I have had replacements in all my knuckles on both hands it was hard and I had lots of physio but well worth it.

Richgirl profile image
Richgirl in reply toBeverley_F

Thank u very much. On a scale from 1 to 10, one being the least pain, 10 being the worst pain, how painful is the recovery? Have a beautiful day🌻

Beverley_F profile image
Beverley_F in reply toRichgirl

if I'm honest I'd say a 10 for at least the first week maybe 2 weeks but Knowing it will only get better helps and being out of pain after does too. I'd not have had it done on the second one otherwise. I hope this helps you decide, even with pain of it I would recommend it.

Richgirl profile image
Richgirl in reply toBeverley_F

Thank u very much Beverley. I'm going to look into it for sure. Hope we can talk later. This forum sure is great! Have a wonderful day🌻

Beverley_F profile image
Beverley_F in reply toRichgirl

No worries happy to help.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Advice needed about whether to have my replaced wrist fused.

I had me first replacement wrist 5 years ago. Since then I have had 2 more and a further 4...
muffin profile image

Thinking about a wheelchair

I would appreciate any advice about wheelchairs. I'm having increasing problems walking (arthritis,...
oldtimer profile image

Should I have a Wrist Fusion or not ?

Hi there, I’ve just recently recovered from a scaphoid fracture, however having previous injury’s...
laminator profile image

Numbness and tingling after wrist fusion surgery

I’m nearly 2 weeks post op after having a wrist fusion and existing metal work in my hand moved...
Sjmjep profile image

Advice about wrist fusion

Hi I wondered if I might get some advice and comments about wrist fusion. My right wrist most...

Moderation team

See all
KateL-NRAS profile image
KateL-NRASAdministrator
Donagh-NRAS profile image
Donagh-NRASAdministrator
Nicola-NRAS profile image
Nicola-NRASAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.