Hip replacement 7 wks. ago. Ever since, half my rt. hand is numb. Poss. Brachial plexopathy due to prone pos?

Has anyone else experienced this complication after hip replacement? The right hip was replaced, and the right hand is affected. The little and ring finger and pad on that side are numb down the the wrist, with tingling and throbbing. When I woke up in the recovery room, I noticed it. It felt like half my hand was asleep, and I assumed that when the anesthesia wore off the feeling would return. 7 weeks later, it hasn't. This is a workman's comp situation, and the orthopedist who did the surgery claimed that he had no idea what could have caused the problem, and that it was probably not related to the surgery. Another orthopedist told me that it was a not uncommon complication after hip replacement, and that it was caused brachial plexopathy and could be caused by the placement of the axilllary roll during the surgery. I'm afraid that the WC people are going to try to weasel out of taking responsibility for this problem, and from my research, it could last months or even be permanent.

I've had both of my hips replaced. The problem you cite may have been a result of your position on the operating table. I had a terrible neck ache for a couple of days after my first hip. It did go away but it bothered me more those two days than my hip did! I guess the pain in my neck made me forget about my hip incision.

When they position you, they tuck various cushions and pads and the axillary roll that you mention was probably placed under your armpit or shoulder when you are on your side.

You mention that you have done research. Have you found any studies that relate to this complication after THR? Is the symptom likely to resolve? If so, in what time frame? Be sure you print them out so that you have them when you next visit the surgeon[s]. Best advice I can give is to keep at them. I'm afraid I have more questions than answers for you.

I've had 3 hip replacements and the 4th one is scheduled for January. My first 2 were done 13 years ago. Here's what I've learned about surgeons who claim they have no idea what causes side effects such as yours...
they don't give a damn about anything but getting paid.

You need to talk to a WC attorney. Look in the yellow pages or ask around. They will take your case for free and unfortunately YOU are going to have to be the one to fight for your rights here.

All doctors feign innocence and really don't care about your side effect problems, but you CAN get WC to pay for this if you go through the right channels (Legal). It won't be quick and easy but I encourage you to pursue this because the longer you wait, the less chance you have of getting results. Fight for your rights because you aren't getting any younger, and frankly, you'll have more problems ahead. My first hip replacement only lasted 7 years before it starting dislocating.

I wish you the best of luck and encourage you to STAY STRONG! You CAN do this!! :)

Positioning during surgery can certainly cause a nerve palsy. I have seen it several times...most often in neck sugeries where they place the person on their side and their is undue pressure on the ulnar nerve...those cases are a little scarry because instantly everyone thinks something went wrong with the surgery, but it then begins to resolve within days.

It's surprising that your pain has lasted this long, but certainly if you were positioned for a long time you may have had a significant obstruction of blood flow to the nerve.

Here is my advice: If the symptoms do not absolve, see a neuroligst who may order tests to determine if there is, indeed, a nerve palsy. Then, obtain a copy of your surgical report as positioning should be documented as part of the procedure. If it appears that there was lack of proper positioning, it may be in your best interest to discuss this with a lawyer who would advise you if this ultimately can be traced back to the WC or if the surgicial team is solely responsible.

Best wishes