What is hand surgery?
Hand surgery may be performed for various reasons, including infection to the hand, injury to the hand, or to correct long-term conditions affecting the hand. Surgery may be done on different areas of the hand, and it can be advised to correct either the bones or soft tissues in the hand. Hand surgery is usually performed by either a general surgeon, an orthopaedic surgeon, or a plastic surgeon.
Why is hand surgery performed?
Hand surgery is often performed to correct the following conditions:
⦁ Carpal tunnel syndrome
⦁ Trigger finger
⦁ Hand injuries and trauma
⦁ Tendon repair
⦁ Joint replacement
⦁ Congenital defects
⦁ Inflammatory arthritis
⦁ Dupuytren’s contracture
⦁ A bone deformity or extra growth (such as metacarpal bossing)
What does hand surgery involve?
Surgery on the hand varies depending on the type of condition it is attempting to correct. Many surgeries are performed as minor day case operations, meaning the patient can leave the hospital on the same day the operation is performed. Some operations are performed under local anaesthetic, meaning the patient is awake. Day-case operations are usually preferred as they allow for quicker healing time.
What is the aftercare for surgery?
Surgery may also be accompanied with physiotherapy or visits to a specialist who will show the patient how to strengthen their hand and monitor movement and function. Depending on the surgery, a splint may also be advised to help along the healing process. Healthcare providers will schedule follow-up appointments to check progress. In some cases stitches may need removing. Depending on the surgery, it can take around a month or longer to fully heal and be back to normal.