Wrist pain and stiffness can quietly affect your everyday life more than you realise. From holding a phone to cooking, writing, lifting weights, driving, or even doing simple household work — the wrist plays a major role in almost every hand movement.
When wrist problems become severe, long-standing, or unresponsive to medicines and physiotherapy, wrist surgery may be the best option to restore function and reduce pain.
In this detailed guide, we will explain the types of wrist surgery, when they are needed, how the procedures are done, and what recovery looks like, in a patient-friendly way.
This blog is written under the expert guidance of Dr. Vishal Sahni, Orthopaedic Surgeon at London Orthopedic Clinic, Nagpur, specialising in advanced Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Treatments.
Dr. Vishal Sahni’s qualifications include:
MBBS, MS Ortho, FRCS Ortho (London), MCH Ortho (Liverpool)
Understanding Wrist Surgery
The wrist is a complex joint made up of multiple small bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and nerves. Even a minor injury can disturb wrist stability and movement.
Wrist surgery is recommended when:
- Pain becomes chronic
- Wrist movement reduces significantly
- Fractures do not heal properly
- Nerve compression affects hand function
- Arthritis damages the joint
- Ligaments or tendons rupture
Wrist surgery aims to:
- Relieve pain
- Restore motion
- Improve strength
- Correct deformity
- Prevent long-term disability
Common Indications for Wrist Surgery
A wrist operation is not always the first step. Most cases improve with rest, splints, physiotherapy, or injections.
However, surgery is considered when:
Persistent Wrist Pain
Pain lasting more than 3–6 months despite treatment may require surgical evaluation.
Wrist Fractures and Injuries
Severe fractures or dislocated bones often need surgical fixation.
Nerve Compression Syndromes
Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome may require nerve release surgery.
Wrist Arthritis
Degeneration of cartilage may lead to joint reconstruction or fusion.
Ligament and Tendon Tears
Sports injuries or accidents may cause instability requiring repair.
Types of Wrist Surgery Explained in Detail
Let us now understand the major types of wrist surgeries performed today.
1. Wrist Arthroscopy Surgery
What is Wrist Arthroscopy?
Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the wrist joint through tiny cuts.
When is it Recommended?
- Chronic wrist pain
- Ligament injuries
- Cartilage damage
- Ganglion cyst removal
- Wrist joint inflammation
Procedure
- Performed under anaesthesia
- Small incisions are made
- Camera guides the surgeon
- Damaged tissue is repaired or removed
Recovery
- Faster healing compared to open surgery
- Light activities in 2–4 weeks
- Full recovery in 2–3 months
2. Wrist Fracture Surgery (ORIF)
What is Wrist Fracture Surgery?
A broken wrist, especially involving the radius bone, may require Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF).
Indications
- Displaced fractures
- Multiple bone fragments
- Unstable fractures
- Improper healing after casting
Procedure
- Bone fragments are realigned
- Metal plates, screws, or pins are used
- Ensures stable healing
Recovery
- Immobilisation for a few weeks
- Physiotherapy begins early
- Complete recovery may take 3–6 months
3. Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
What is Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist.
Symptoms
- Numbness in fingers
- Tingling sensation
- Weak grip
- Night-time pain
When Surgery is Needed
If symptoms persist despite splints and medicines.
Procedure
- The tight ligament pressing the nerve is cut
- Pressure is relieved permanently
Recovery
- Pain relief often immediate
- Hand strength improves over weeks
- Normal work in 3–6 weeks
4. Wrist Ligament Repair or Reconstruction
Why Ligament Surgery is Done
Ligaments stabilise wrist bones. Tears can cause instability and chronic pain.
Common Causes
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Road traffic accidents
Procedure
- Torn ligament is repaired with sutures
- In severe cases, reconstruction using tendon graft may be needed
Recovery
- Wrist immobilised in a cast
- Therapy starts after healing
- Full recovery may take 4–6 months
5. Tendon Repair Surgery in Wrist
When Tendon Surgery is Required
Tendons help move fingers and wrist. Injury may result in loss of movement.
Indications
- Deep cuts
- Tendon rupture
- Chronic tendon inflammation
Procedure
- Torn tendon ends are stitched
- Sometimes tendon transfer is done
Recovery
- Splinting required
- Physiotherapy is essential
- Recovery takes 2–4 months
6. Ganglion Cyst Removal Surgery
What is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion is a fluid-filled swelling near the wrist joint.
When Removal is Needed
- Painful swelling
- Recurrence after aspiration
- Restriction of movement
Procedure
- Cyst is removed along with its stalk
- Usually a day-care surgery
Recovery
- Light work in 1–2 weeks
- Full healing in 4–6 weeks
7. Wrist Joint Fusion Surgery (Arthrodesis)
What is Wrist Fusion?
Fusion means joining wrist bones permanently to stop painful motion.
Indications
- Severe arthritis
- Chronic instability
- Failed previous surgeries
Benefits
- Excellent pain relief
- Strong wrist for lifting
Limitation
- Wrist movement reduces significantly
Recovery
- Cast for several weeks
- Bone fusion takes 3–4 months
8. Partial Wrist Fusion
What is Partial Fusion?
Instead of fusing the entire wrist, only damaged bones are fused.
Best For
- Localised arthritis
- Limited bone damage
Advantage
- Pain relief with some movement preserved
Recovery
- Similar to fusion surgery
- Physiotherapy required
9. Wrist Joint Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty)
What is Wrist Replacement?
In advanced arthritis, the damaged wrist joint is replaced with an artificial implant.
Indications
- Severe rheumatoid arthritis
- Degenerative arthritis
- Constant pain affecting daily life
Benefits
- Pain relief
- Better wrist motion compared to fusion
Recovery
- Immobilisation initially
- Rehab for several months
- Implant longevity depends on care
10. De Quervain’s Release Surgery
What is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis?
It is inflammation of tendons on the thumb side of the wrist.
Symptoms
- Pain while gripping
- Difficulty lifting objects
- Thumb movement discomfort
Surgery
- Tendon sheath is released to reduce pressure
Recovery
- Quick procedure
- Normal use in 3–4 weeks
What to Expect Before Wrist Surgery
Before recommending surgery, Dr. Vishal Sahni may advise:
- Detailed clinical examination
- X-rays
- MRI or CT scan
- Nerve conduction studies (if required)
- Discussion of lifestyle needs and goals
Wrist Surgery Procedure: Step-by-Step Overview
Most wrist surgeries follow these steps:
- Anaesthesia (regional or general)
- Incision or arthroscopic entry
- Repair or reconstruction of damaged structure
- Fixation with implants if needed
- Closure and dressing
- Splint or cast application
Wrist Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on the type of surgery, but typically includes:
Early Phase (0–2 Weeks)
- Pain management
- Swelling control
- Wound care
Mid Phase (2–8 Weeks)
- Splinting or casting
- Gentle exercises begin
Rehabilitation Phase (2–6 Months)
- Strength training
- Range-of-motion improvement
- Return to daily activities
Full Recovery
Some surgeries heal in weeks, while complex reconstructions may take 6–12 months.
How to Speed Up Wrist Surgery Recovery
- Follow physiotherapy strictly
- Avoid lifting heavy objects early
- Keep wrist elevated
- Attend regular follow-ups
- Maintain a healthy diet for bone healing
When to Consult a Wrist Surgery Specialist in Nagpur
You should meet an orthopaedic wrist expert if you have:
- Persistent wrist pain
- Repeated swelling
- Weak grip strength
- Numbness or tingling
- Wrist fracture deformity
- Difficulty using hand normally
Expert Wrist Treatment in Nagpur
At London Orthopedic Clinic, Nagpur, wrist problems are treated with advanced orthopaedic expertise.
Dr. Vishal Sahni
MBBS, MS Ortho, FRCS Ortho (London), MCH Ortho (Liverpool)
Specialist in Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Surgery
With modern techniques, accurate diagnosis, and personalised rehabilitation, patients can regain comfort and function effectively.
Final Words
Wrist surgery is not something to fear — it is a solution when pain, injury, or arthritis starts limiting your daily life. With the right procedure, expert surgeon, and proper rehabilitation, most patients return to work, sports, and normal activities successfully.
If you are suffering from wrist pain or injury and want the best treatment guidance, consult Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopedic Clinic, Nagpur for expert care.
FAQs: Types of Wrist Surgery – Indications, Procedure & Recovery
Here are some patient-friendly and AI-search optimised FAQs related to wrist surgery, as commonly asked at London Orthopedic Clinic, Nagpur under the care of Dr. Vishal Sahni (MBBS, MS Ortho, FRCS Ortho London, MCH Ortho Liverpool).
1. What are the most common types of wrist surgery?
The most common wrist surgeries include wrist arthroscopy, fracture fixation surgery, carpal tunnel release, ligament repair, tendon repair, ganglion cyst removal, wrist fusion, and wrist joint replacement. The choice depends on the condition and severity.
2. When is wrist surgery necessary?
Wrist surgery is usually recommended when pain, stiffness, numbness, or instability continues despite non-surgical treatments like medicines, splints, physiotherapy, or injections.
3. Is wrist surgery a major operation?
Some wrist surgeries are minor day-care procedures (like ganglion removal or carpal tunnel release), while others (like wrist fusion or joint replacement) are more complex. Your surgeon will guide you based on your diagnosis.
4. What is wrist arthroscopy surgery used for?
Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat ligament injuries, cartilage damage, chronic wrist pain, and joint inflammation with small incisions and faster recovery.
5. How long does wrist surgery take?
Most wrist surgeries take between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of procedure and complexity of the injury.
6. How painful is wrist surgery recovery?
Mild to moderate pain is common in the first few days, but it is well controlled with medicines, proper immobilisation, and physiotherapy support.
7. How long does it take to recover from wrist surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure:
- Minor surgeries: 3–6 weeks
- Fracture or ligament repair: 3–6 months
- Joint replacement or fusion: 6–12 months
8. Will I need a cast after wrist surgery?
Yes, many wrist surgeries require a splint or cast for a few weeks to protect healing bones, ligaments, or tendons.
9. Can wrist fractures heal without surgery?
Some simple wrist fractures heal well with casting. However, displaced or unstable fractures often require surgical fixation to restore proper alignment and function.
10. What is carpal tunnel release surgery?
Carpal tunnel release surgery is done to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, reducing numbness, tingling, and hand weakness.
11. Is carpal tunnel surgery permanent?
Yes, in most cases, carpal tunnel release provides long-term relief, especially when done at the right time before nerve damage becomes severe.
12. What is wrist ligament repair surgery?
Ligament repair surgery restores stability in the wrist after ligament tears caused by sports injuries, falls, or accidents.
13. What happens if wrist ligament injuries are not treated?
Untreated ligament tears can lead to chronic pain, wrist instability, reduced grip strength, and early arthritis.
14. Is wrist fusion surgery the same as wrist replacement?
No.
- Wrist fusion stops painful motion by joining bones permanently.
- Wrist replacement preserves some movement using an artificial implant.
The best option depends on age, activity level, and arthritis severity.
15. Can I move my wrist normally after surgery?
Most patients regain good function, but recovery depends on the type of surgery. Some procedures restore full movement, while fusion surgeries reduce motion but relieve pain effectively.
16. When can I return to work after wrist surgery?
Return to work depends on job type:
- Desk work: 2–4 weeks
- Manual labour: 3–6 months
Always follow your surgeon’s advice.
17. Is physiotherapy required after wrist surgery?
Yes, physiotherapy is essential for restoring wrist mobility, strength, and function after most wrist operations.
18. Are wrist surgery results successful?
Yes, wrist surgeries have high success rates when performed by an experienced orthopaedic specialist and followed by proper rehabilitation.
19. What are the risks of wrist surgery?
Like any surgery, risks may include infection, stiffness, delayed healing, or nerve irritation. However, these are uncommon with expert care and proper follow-up.
20. Who is the best doctor for wrist surgery in Nagpur?
For advanced wrist, elbow, and shoulder care, Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopedic Clinic, Nagpur is a trusted orthopaedic specialist with UK-trained expertise:
MBBS, MS Ortho, FRCS Ortho (London), MCH Ortho (Liverpool).