title: MP implants for rheumatoid arthritis of the hand.
abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis is a devastating disease, which can incapacitate a person in activities of daily living. Only after all other methods have been exhausted, should patients undergo surgery for pain relief, mobility, and cosmetic reasons. A lengthy rehabilitative period following the placement of the metacarpophalangeal implants assures maximum mobility in the new joints. Nurses must be aware of their educational responsibilities to the patient before, during, and after the surgery for patient compliance.
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Sipos
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D008662:Metacarpophalangeal Joint; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010353:Patient Education as Topic