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Hand surgery is a specialised field of medicine that deals with the treatment of injuries, disorders, and diseases affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. The goal of hand surgery is to restore the function and appearance of the hand, enabling patients to perform daily tasks and improve their quality of life. Hand surgery requires a high level of skill and expertise, as the structures and functions of the hand are complex and delicate.
Alternate Names of Hand Surgery
Hand and wrist surgery, hand reconstruction surgery, hand trauma surgery, hand microsurgery.
Associated Anatomy
The hand is composed of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels and skin. The wrist may also be involved, depending on the extent of the condition.
Types of Hand Surgeries
The type of surgery recommended depends on the individual's specific condition and the severity of their symptoms. A few examples of hand surgeries performed are:
- Carpal tunnel release is a procedure that relieves pressure on the nerve in the wrist, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in hands and fingers.
- Tendon repair is a procedure to repair damaged tendons that connect muscles to bones in the hand and wrist, often caused by trauma or overuse.
- Nerve repair procedure is used to repair damaged nerves in the hand and wrist, which may cause loss of sensation or movement.
- Finger joint replacement is a procedure to replace a damaged or arthritic joint in the finger with an artificial joint reducing pain and improving function.
- Dupuytren's contracture release is a procedure to release tight cords of tissue in the palm of the hand, which causes the fingers to curl inward and restrict movement.
- Trigger finger release is a procedure to release a thickened tendon in the finger that causes the finger to get stuck in a bent position.
- Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the wrist joint, such as arthritis, ligament injuries, and fractures.
- Thumb basal joint reconstruction is a procedure to reconstruct the joint at the base of the thumb, which is commonly affected by osteoarthritis and may cause pain and weakness in the thumb and wrist.
- Fasciotomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve compartment syndrome, a condition characterised by increased pressure within a closed anatomical compartment. Fasciotomies are commonly performed in emergency situations, such as cases of acute limb ischemia or severe trauma.
- Finger Replantation is a surgical procedure to reattach a completely or partially amputated finger. It is typically performed in cases where the amputated finger and its associated structures, such as blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and bone, are suitable for reattachment.
Benefits of Hand Surgery
Hand surgery can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved function and range of motion of the hand and wrist
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- Improved grip strength and dexterity
- Improved appearance of the hand and wrist
- Improved quality of life
Hand Surgery Procedure Type
Hand surgery involves various surgical procedures, including reconstructive surgery, microsurgery, and minimally invasive surgery. The type of procedure depends on the specific condition and its severity.
Preparation for Hand Surgery
- Before the procedure, the surgeon will ask the patient about their personal and family medical history, conduct a physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to evaluate the condition of the hand and wrist.
- The patient may be asked to start or stop taking certain medications before the surgery.
- The patient should also arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and help with daily activities during the recovery period.
Hand Surgery Procedure Performed
- The procedure depends on the specific condition and its severity. Some procedures may be performed with local anaesthesia, while others may require general anaesthesia.
- The surgeon may make an incision in the hand or wrist to access the affected area and repair or remove damaged tissue or bone.
- In some cases, the surgeon may use a minimally invasive approach, such as arthroscopy, to perform the procedure.
Hand Surgery Risks
As with any surgical procedure, hand surgery carries risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Complications related to anaesthesia
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness in the hand and wrist after the surgery.
Recovery After Hand Surgery
- The recovery period depends on the type of procedure and the individual's overall health.
- Patients may need to wear a splint or cast to immobilise the hand and wrist for some time after the surgery.
- Patients may also need physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in the hand and wrist.
- Follow the surgeon's postoperative instructions to minimise the risk of complications and encourage a successful recovery.
Conclusion
Overall, hand surgery is a highly specialised field of medicine that can improve the function and appearance of the hand and wrist. By working closely with a skilled surgeon and following postoperative instructions, patients can achieve improved hand and wrist function, reduced pain and discomfort, and a better quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common hand surgery?
The most common hand surgeries include carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, and tendon repair. Other common procedures include fracture repair, arthroscopy, and nerve repair.
2. Is hand surgery serious?
Hand surgery can be serious depending on the type of procedure being performed.
3. What is the recovery time for hand surgery?
Recovery time for hand surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed, the extent of the surgery, and the individual patient. In general, patients can expect some pain and discomfort for the first few days or weeks following surgery and may need to limit their hand use for several weeks to allow for proper healing.
4. How long does hand surgery usually take?
The length of hand surgery varies depending on the type and complexity of the procedure.
5. Do you need a cast after hand surgery?
Whether or not you need a cast after hand surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. Some surgeries require a cast to immobilise the hand and allow for proper healing, while others do not.
6. Can you use your hand after hand surgery?
The extent to which you can use your hand after hand surgery depends on the type and complexity of the procedure. In most cases, patients need to limit their hand use for several weeks to allow for proper healing. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on hand use following surgery.
7. How long does hand surgery hurt?
The amount of pain and discomfort experienced following hand surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual patient. Some patients may experience mild discomfort for a few days, while others may experience more significant pain for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide the necessary medications to ensure a comfortable recovery.
Reviewed & Updated On
Reviewed by Dr. Vikas Gupta, Director, Orthopaedics and Head - Hand & Shoulder Surgery on 13-July-2023.