"Hardware Removal"

DH had a small surgery today to remove the plate and 4 screws placed in his hand almost a year ago (after clicking on hyperlink you'll have to scroll down to the accident entry) when he lost his pinkie and shattered his ring finger.

The x-ray at right is the "before" image, when this plate was in his finger.

The hardware in his ring finger has presented problems to him in two ways: his grip is very compromised, which hinders him at work, and his stretch and curl have been compromised, which affects his guitar.

His surgeon, who specializes in hands, typically does not remove these plates, but leaves them virtually forever. DH began asking for removal not long after healing from the original accident. Finally, in late winter or early spring, he took his guitar to the doctor's office and played for him. His music was so moving that the Dr. said, "Now I understand. I will remove it."

DH's trip to Mexico interfered a tad as the Dr did not want to risk infection setting in down in Mexico, so the surgery was scheduled for this week, after DH's return.

Seeing what came out, I am amazed at how large it is. The plate measures at 1.5" or 3.75 cm. It does not look at all as we had imagined. It is brass and resembles a chain, although it is a rigid plate. It is comprised of a series of tiny round brass doughnuts, all forming the one solid piece.

We had imagined a stainless steel rectangle.

DH is resting well, thirsty and woozy and feeling some discomfort in his finger from today's invasion.

The Surgeon anticipates a full recovery and is quite optimistic as to the range of motion following the hardware removal. He was able to manipulate the finger fully following removal and can't wait to see if DH can do so after the swelling is down.

Thanks to all of you for your prayers and well-wishes.