Hand and wrist surgery are used to correct a variety of injuries and conditions. While it is not the first treatment option for anyone, there are situations when surgery is inevitable. Hand and wrist surgeries can successfully treat a variety of issues. If you are experiencing a hand or wrist issue that conservative treatments, such as medications, are not alleviating, talk to an orthopedic surgeon about whether surgery is right for you.
Hand and Wrist Conditions Treated by Surgery
Hand and wrist surgery can fix a variety of issues. Some of the most common problems fixed through surgery include:
- Chronic injuries (severed tendons, ligaments, and nerves)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Compressive neuropathy
- Ganglion cysts
- Complex bone fractures
- Hand and wrist trauma
- Infections
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
- Late stage osteoarthritis
- Deformities due to rheumatoid arthritis
To prepare for hand or wrist surgery, you will first undergo a variety of tests. This includes imaging tests, so your doctor can assess the internal structures that need to be fixed. It may also include other tests that assess whether you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. Once your surgeon determines you are a good candidate for surgery, you will schedule a time and date for the procedure at an outpatient center or hospital.
There are different techniques surgeons use to perform a hand or wrist surgery. Methods such as arthroscopy, endoscopy, and arthroplasty have made it possible for surgeons to perform surgeries that are minimally-invasive. They require smaller incisions to perform the procedures and result in less trauma to surrounding tissue as well as shorter recovery periods post-surgery. Not all hand and wrist surgeries can be done with these techniques, so talk to your doctor about whether it’s an option for you.
Most hand and wrist surgeries can be performed as outpatient procedures, which means you can return home the same day as your procedure. You should have a loved one drive you to and from surgery. Your hand or wrist will likely be immobilized while you heal. It is also likely that you will be given medication for pain relief as well as antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Immediately following hand or wrist surgery, you will be instructed to rest at home. The exact number of days you will be asked to take off work and other activities depends on your overall health and the type of procedure you get done. After your surgery wound has healed significantly, your surgeon will most likely recommend physical therapy or rehabilitation. This will help restore function, mobility, and strength in your hand or wrist. This is a critical part of your recovery. You can expect to do physical therapy for several weeks following surgery – both with a physical therapist and at home by yourself.
Hand and Wrist Surgery from a Top Hand Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas
If your hand or wrist pain is interfering with your functionality or quality of life, surgery may be the answer. The experts at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine have a wealth of experience diagnosing and treating hand and wrist conditions and injuries. They can treat you using state-of-the-art nonsurgical and surgical treatments.
Visit us today to see how we can help bring you relief. To schedule an appointment, call the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at (210) 692-7400 or send an appointment request now.
