Hi to everyone,
It has been a while since I updated my progress but now I am 4 Months down the line from my full fasciectomy I thought it was about time I let you know how things are. (see my post 12/12/09 titled Third update after surgery)
I had 12 sessions of ultra sound treatment, this was aimed at preventing too much scar tissue forming. It seems to have worked (see attached photo) as there is now only faint marks visible. My finger is no where near straight, ( see 2nd photo) but it is much better than before. The most successful part of the surgery has been the release of the pip joint, before the finger was locked at approx 90 dgs & now it is completely free & I have full flexibility in the joint. I can make a full fist, with no problem & my grip strength seems fine. I still wear my splint at night, & will continue to do so.I should have seen my surgeon on 25th Feb, but the hospital cancelled the appointment, & I am now going to see her on Tuesday 16th March. Not ideal I know, 4 Months seems a long time before seeing the surgeon again but I guess that`s the NHS for you.
There is a little stiffness on the palm side of the knuckles, especially first thing in the morning, but with some flexing exercises this soon goes.
So would I recommend surgery? Well, I am pleased at the moment, but I do realise there is a chance the nodules & contracture will reappear, (fingers crossed they don`t).
I am left handed & the op was on the right hand so I was able to cope well enough, I would not have wanted it done on my left hand due to the considerable recovery time. I do have the nodules in my left hand, but at the moment no contracture, I will certainly pursue the avenue of NA before it deteriorates any further.I am also following the radiotherapy line, I understand NICE will be publishing guidelines for this in July this year. In my case the finger was so bent I was told by the surgeon that the op was the only solution, moral of the tale, don`t wait for it to get to that stage before taking action.
Adrian.