You use your hands for a wide variety of activities. Simply put, if you lost the optimal function of your hands, you would be hard-pressed to perform even the simplest activities. You may not pay much attention to your hands, but through their movement and sensation, you can accomplish a lot of things at home and at work.
Hand surgeons are trained specialists who can provide care for your hands when you encounter problems related to their function and appearance.
Who needs hand surgery?
Most problems related to the hands and wrists do not typically require surgery. However, hand surgery is often recommended for patients who are under extreme pain or have lost function of their hands. It is also recommended for patients who do not respond well to other types of treatments, including medications, physiotherapy, splinting and exercise.
Hand surgery, Sydney locals ought to know, is primarily conducted for functional purposes. However, it is not unusual to see an improvement in the appearance of your hands after the surgery.
What are the conditions which require hand surgery?
If your hand condition does not improve with conventional treatment methods, your physician may recommend hand surgery to eliminate pain and restore strength, function and flexibility to the hands, fingers and wrists.
There are a few conditions that may require hand surgery, including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, ganglion cyst, hand tumours, Dupuytren’s contracture and rheumatoid arthritis.
Who's the ideal candidate for this type of surgery?
Before you can undergo hand surgery, your doctor should assess your condition and determine whether you qualify as an ideal candidate.
An ideal candidate is someone who:
· Is a non-smoker
· Does not have an illness or is not taking medication that can impair healing
· Has realistic goals about the procedure
· Is committed to following the surgeon's instructions
How is it done?
The procedure begins with the administration of a regional anesthetic, typically injected in the armpit or above the shoulder. Your entire arm will be numbed but you will remain either awake or lightly sedated. You can elect for general anaesthesia if you are planning to stay in the hospital overnight.
Once the anaesthetic takes effect, your surgeon will use fine instruments that enable him to handle the structures of your hand. He may also use either loupes (a type of magnifying glass) or an operating microscope.
After the surgery, your doctor will provide you with reminders about post-operative care. Be sure to follow these closely.
Get more information from the leading hand surgery specialists in Australia today.