Hand surgery is a branch of surgical interventions performed to treat problems related to the hands and wrist. Hand surgery is performed to correct or treat disorders related to the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves in the hand.
Hand surgery covers a wide range of procedures involving a variety of conditions. These include repairing fractures, repairing tendon injuries, resolving nerve compression, treating carpal tunnel syndrome, removing tumors in the hand, treating degenerative diseases of the hand, and hand reconstruction.
Hand surgery is usually performed by a hand surgeon. These specialists have received special training in hand and upper extremity anatomy, hand surgery techniques and microsurgery. Hand surgery procedures may use different techniques and methods depending on the patient’s condition and the nature of the problem. Operations are usually performed under local anesthesia and sometimes general anesthesia may be required.
Hand surgery aims to improve hand and wrist function, relieve pain, and enable patients to return to their daily lives. For this reason, hand surgery is often preferred to treat problems related to conditions such as injuries, fractures, repetitive motion injuries, degenerative diseases, or congenital anomalies.
Hand and Finger Amputations: Hand and finger amputations are cases where the hand or fingers are completely or partially separated in an accident or traumatic event. These types of injuries require immediate medical attention. Surgery usually involves reattaching severed tissues and restoring function. Depending on the severity of the injury, bone, tendon, nerve and vascular injuries may also be repaired.
Tendon Injuries: Tendons are ligaments that connect muscles to bones. Tendon injuries in the hand refer to situations where the tendon is partially or completely torn. These injuries often occur as a result of accidents, sports activities or repetitive movements. Treatment usually involves surgery and aims to repair or reattach the torn tendon. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are also often used to support the healing process.
Nerve Injuries: Nerve injuries are conditions in which the nerves in the hand are damaged. These injuries often occur as a result of cuts, fractures, or a traumatic event. Nerve injuries can cause symptoms such as loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or loss of movement. Treatment may include repairing the nerve or reconnecting the damaged section. Because nerve regrowth is a slow process, special exercises are used to rehabilitate and promote the healing of the nerve.
Vascular Injuries: Vascular injuries are situations in which the vessels in the hand are damaged. These injuries usually occur as a result of cuts, fractures, or a traumatic event. They can lead to serious consequences such as bleeding in the vein or obstruction of blood flow. Treatment involves repairing or reconnecting the damaged vein. Surgery may often be required to repair the vein or repair it using grafts.
Nerve compression is a condition where a nerve is put under pressure, compressed or irritated by surrounding tissues. As a result of this compression, the normal communication of the nerve is affected and various symptoms may occur.
The most common nerve compression condition in the hand is carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a structure located in the wrist and the median nerve passes through it. In carpal tunnel syndrome, this nerve becomes compressed and subjected to pressure. This condition usually manifests itself with pain, numbness, tingling and a feeling of weakness in the wrist area. Symptoms may increase, especially at night or after prolonged hand use.
Nerve compression can often be caused by the following reasons:
Compression of the nerve as a result of narrowing or inflammation of a structure or canal, as in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Nerve irritation and compression caused by repetitive movements.
Compression of the nerve as a result of a traumatic event, fracture, dislocation or injury.
Pressure on the nerve due to inflammation or swelling.
Treatment for nerve compression may vary depending on the determination of the underlying cause. Conservative treatment methods include rest, use of wrist splints, medication, physical therapy and hand exercises. These can help relieve symptoms and relieve the nerve from pressure.
However, in some cases, if symptoms are severe or do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options include procedures to widen the area where the nerve is pinched, relieve pressure, or release the nerve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1- Is hand surgery painful?
Hand surgery is usually done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. However, a slight pain, swelling and discomfort after surgery is normal. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to manage post-operative pain.
2- How long does hand surgery take?
Hand surgery varies depending on the procedure to be performed and the severity of the problem. A simple operation may take a few minutes, while a complex operation may take several hours. Your surgeon will give you a personalized estimated surgery time.
3- How long does it take to recover after hand surgery?
The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery, complexity of the procedure, and personal factors. After a simple hand surgery procedure, the recovery process can take several weeks. More complex procedures or situations requiring reconstructive surgery may extend recovery time. Your surgeon will give you more specific information about the healing process.
4- What kind of restrictions will I have after hand surgery?
There may be certain restrictions in the postoperative period. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on what to do after surgery. It is important to follow these instructions. For example, you may need to avoid heavy lifting or certain activities or sports.
5- When can I return to normal daily activities after hand surgery?
The time it takes to return to normal daily activities varies depending on the type of surgery, your recovery rate, and your surgeon’s instructions. After a simple procedure, you can return to normal activities within a few days. In cases requiring more complex surgery, the recovery process may be longer. Your surgeon will tell you when you can return to normal activities.