The most common hand surgery procedures are done to those with injuries, degenerative disorders, and birth defects. This may include problems associated with the tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and joints; fractured bones; or burns and cuts. Hand surgery can be performed through a variety of ways, such as replantation or transplantation, flap surgery, and grafting.
Learn more about Hand Surgery in our Plastic Surgery Forum.
Length
1 to 2 Hours
Side Effects
Possibility of mild to severe pain.
Recovery
You may be prescribed specific injections or oral medication to make you feel more comfortable following surgery. The extent and type of procedure determines how fast you will heal from hand surgery. You may be restricted from work and specific activities, and your hand will probably need to be immobilized in a bandage or splint. Sometimes, repeat surgery is necessary and rehabilitation may be recommended by your doctor for strength building and improved functioning.
Risks
Possible infection, poor healing, loss of feeling or movement of the hand and fingers, blood clots, and adverse reactions to the anesthesia.
Results
Long-lasting. A significant degree of feeling and function will be restored to the hands.
Technology
(During examination time, a complete history and physical examination is taken. Your doctor will also need to know your age, hand preference, occupation, and the history of any other problems associated with your specific condition. You will also need to give details regarding the trauma or injury you may suffer.) Hand surgery will improve problematic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, Dupuytren’s contracture, and congenital defects. The type of procedure you undergo depends on your condition; however, a doctor can transfer skin, bone, nerves, or other tissue from a healthy body part to repair the injured part through grafting; use flap surgery for moving the skin along with its underlying fat, blood vessels, and muscles; or employ replantation, or what is also called transplantation, through microsurgery performed under magnification. Some hand surgery cases require more than one operation over an extended period of time.
Patient Status
Outpatient -
Anesthesia
Local