Hand surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. These conditions can result from injuries, degenerative diseases, repetitive strain, or congenital differences. Depending on the severity of the issue, treatment may involve non-surgical methods or surgical intervention to restore function, relieve pain, and improve mobility.

If you’re considering treatment from a hand surgeon, understanding the common procedures performed and what to expect during the process can help ease concerns and prepare you for recovery.

1. Carpal Tunnel Release

What It Treats:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome (compression of the median nerve in the wrist)
• Symptoms include numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and fingers

Procedure Overview:

• Open Surgery: A small incision is made in the palm to cut the transverse carpal ligament, relieving pressure on the nerve.
• Endoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive technique using a small camera and specialized tools to release the ligament with fewer incisions.

Recovery:

• Patients may experience temporary soreness, swelling, and weakness but can usually return to light activities within 1–2 weeks.
• Full recovery, including grip strength improvement, may take a few months.

2. Tendon Repair Surgery

What It Treats:

• Injuries involving torn, lacerated, or ruptured tendons
• Common conditions include trigger finger, flexor/extensor tendon injuries, and tendonitis

Procedure Overview:

• The surgeon reconnects the torn tendon fibers using precise suturing techniques.
• In some cases, a tendon graft (using a piece of another tendon) may be needed.

Recovery:

• Hand therapy is essential to prevent stiffness and restore movement.
• Splinting may be required for several weeks, with full recovery taking 3 to 6 months.

3. Fracture Fixation (Hand and Wrist Fractures)

What It Treats:

• Broken bones in the fingers, hand, or wrist
• Symptoms include pain, swelling, deformity, and loss of movement

Procedure Overview:

• Non-Surgical Approach: Casting or splinting for minor fractures.
• Surgical Approach:
  • The surgeon realigns the broken bones and stabilizes them using plates, screws, or pins to ensure proper healing.
  • In some cases, external fixation devices may be used.

Recovery:

• Healing typically takes 6–8 weeks, but physical therapy may be needed for full function recovery.
• Early movement exercises help prevent stiffness.

4. Joint Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty)

What It Treats:

• Severe arthritis affecting the finger, wrist, or thumb joints
• Symptoms include chronic pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of mobility

Procedure Overview:

• The damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal, ceramic, or plastic.
• Commonly performed for severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Recovery:

• Patients may need splints and therapy for several weeks to regain function.
• Light activities can resume within a few weeks, but full recovery may take months.

5. Nerve Repair and Decompression

What It Treats:

• Nerve injuries from cuts, trauma, or chronic compression (e.g., cubital tunnel syndrome, radial nerve palsy)
• Symptoms include numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and pain

Procedure Overview:

• The surgeon repairs the damaged nerve using microsurgical techniques.
• In cases of chronic compression (e.g., cubital tunnel syndrome), nerve decompression involves removing pressure from the affected nerve.

Recovery:

• Nerve regeneration is slow and can take months to a year.
• Therapy is often required to restore hand strength and fine motor skills.

6. Trigger Finger Release

What It Treats:

• Trigger finger (a condition where the finger locks or catches when bent)
• Caused by thickening of the tendon sheath that restricts movement

Procedure Overview:

• Non-Surgical Options: Steroid injections and splinting may help in early cases.
• Surgical Approach: The surgeon makes a small incision to release the tight tendon sheath, allowing the finger to move freely.

Recovery:

• Most patients experience immediate relief after surgery.
• Recovery takes about 2–4 weeks, with light hand exercises recommended.

7. Thumb Basal Joint Surgery (Thumb Arthritis Surgery)

What It Treats:

• Severe arthritis at the base of the thumb (basal joint arthritis)
• Causes pain, weakness, and difficulty gripping objects

Procedure Overview:

• The surgeon removes the damaged joint and may:
  • Use a tendon graft to support the joint.
  • Insert an artificial joint to replace the damaged cartilage.

Recovery:

• A splint or cast is worn for several weeks to aid healing.
• Hand therapy helps restore strength and function over 2–3 months.

What to Expect During Treatment

Before Surgery:

• A consultation with the hand surgeon will include an examination, imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound), and a discussion of treatment options.
• The surgeon will explain risks, benefits, and recovery expectations.

During Surgery:

• Most procedures are performed as outpatient surgeries, meaning patients go home the same day.
• Depending on the procedure, local anesthesia, regional anesthesia, or general anesthesia may be used.

After Surgery:

• Pain management includes medications and cold therapy.
• Splinting or casting may be necessary to protect the area.
• Physical therapy is often required to restore mobility and strength.

Conclusion

Hand surgeons perform a variety of procedures to treat injuries, arthritis, nerve conditions, and deformities, helping patients regain function and reduce pain. Whether through non-surgical treatments, minimally invasive procedures, or complex surgeries, their expertise ensures that patients receive the best possible care.

If you’re experiencing chronic pain, limited mobility, or hand dysfunction, consulting a hand specialist can help determine the right treatment approach for your condition. Early intervention often leads to faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.