Thread: Jay Cutler: Pins will not come out for 3-10 weeks

Thanks for the run down on the diagnosis!

Originally Posted by MPBears68

I spoke to 3 different hand orthopedic surgeons I've worked with for a decade+ (I'm a physician colleague of theirs but not an orthopedist). All of these guys are excellent and 2 of them have been "team docs" for various pro & college sports teams here in Arizona, including the D-backs and Cardinals. The consensus w/o seeing the x-rays of course was:

A Bennett's fracture involves hyper-extention/dislocation of the 1st (thumb) carpo-metacarpal joint basically as part of the definition.

Almost always requires surgery, either a percutaneous pinning or an ORIF (open reduction, intenal fixation, i.e. "plate & screws"). Sounds like Jay had a hybrid of both done.

Pin fixation needs a minimum of 4 weeks and up to 8 depending on patient's speed of healing.

Pin removal rarely requires additional surgery--pulled in the office. Internal hardware doesn't ever need to be removed.

The thumb will be stiff at first. PT used to regain function and mobility.

January is a reasonable goal for Jay to be back playing. Might be throwing lightly by late-December but doubtful he could play then safely.

OK, we now have a decent medical opinion thanks to MP. Doctor, thank you for taking the time to lay it out for us. What you confirm is most of what I got out of Cutler's interview. The regular season is most likely over and it will be Hanie who has to get us there. But he'll regain use of his throwing hand within a month if he heals quickly and may be able to return for the playoffs.

Does that seem to be a reasonable assumption?

With all of this medical talk I feel I need a sugar-free sucker.