Well, Shit Marge...

I knew I’d need surgery, but I hoped the outcome would be a bit different. As you can see in the X-ray, my index finger has two problematic areas: the tip knuckle and the middle knuckle.

For the middle knuckle, joint replacement is technically an option. However, current tech for knuckle replacements uses a soft, “cushiony” material, which allows for flexibility but lacks the strength I’d need for guitar and piano playing. After discussing it with Dr. Mason, we agreed that keeping this joint as-is is best; replacing it would seriously limit my playing abilities, and that’s just not an option. So, I’ll live with the discomfort and keep it as-is.

For the tip knuckle, they’ll make two incisions—one at the top of the knuckle and one at the fingertip below the nail. They’ll drill and insert a screw to stabilize the joint, allowing them to straighten it out somewhat. This fix will eliminate the current bend, but I’ll lose mobility in that knuckle. It will be permanently fixed, which is a bit daunting, but it’s better than the current situation.

Tonight and tomorrow, I’ll play guitar and visualize how this change will affect my playing style. Dr. Mason assured me I’ll be "mostly" sedated during the procedure, with a thoroughly numbed finger. The sedation will be comparable to getting a colonoscopy, which I have had done a few times now. The healing process will take about eight weeks, during which I’ll wear a splint—no big deal.

So, that’s where things stand! I’ll call them with my decision soon, but it feels like the right call. Glad to have the details so I can make an informed choice. Here we go!

See how hard I have to position that index finger to make it be "behind" the fret?

It takes a lot of effort to keep the tip behind the frets while playing bar-chords.

The "Ugalee" facts in plain view!