Distinguishing between a minor injury and one that needs surgical intervention can be as complex as the hand itself. Our hands, a blend of strength and dexterity, are essential in our daily lives, from typing messages to holding a cup of coffee. However, when an injury strikes, these simple tasks can become monumental challenges.
Signs You Might Need Hand Surgery
Understanding when to consider hand surgery is important. Here are expanded details on the signs indicating that surgery might be necessary:
Persistent Pain
Pain that lingers or worsens over time, especially pain that does not alleviate with over-the-counter medication, can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. It might indicate joint damage, nerve compression, or deep tissue injury.
Limited Mobility
Difficulty in moving the fingers, thumb, or wrist, such as stiffness or locking sensations, often indicates joint or tendon issues. This limitation can hinder everyday activities like writing, gripping, or even simple hand movements.
Deformity
Noticeable changes in the appearance of your hand, such as abnormal bending, swelling, or misalignment of fingers often point to serious injuries like fractures or tendon ruptures. These deformities can lead to long-term dysfunction if not treated surgically.
Weakness in Hand
A decrease in hand strength, trouble with grasping objects, or a general feeling of weakness in the hand could signify tendon or nerve damage. This symptom, especially when accompanied by pain or numbness, may require surgical intervention to restore hand function.
Types of Hand Injuries
Understanding the types of hand injuries can help in recognizing the need for potential surgery:
Fractures
Broken bones in the hand or fingers can result from falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma. Complex fractures often require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones.
Tendon Injuries
Tendons, which connect muscle to bone, can be injured due to cuts, ruptures, or overuse. Tendon injuries like trigger finger or tendonitis might require surgical repair if non-surgical treatments fail.
Nerve Damage
Nerves in the hand can be damaged due to trauma, pressure (as in carpal tunnel syndrome), or cuts. Nerve damage often leads to numbness, tingling, or weakness and may necessitate surgical intervention to repair or decompress the affected nerves.
Joint Injuries
These include injuries to the small joints of the hand and wrist, such as arthritis or dislocations. Severe joint injuries may require surgery for joint repair, reconstruction, or in some cases, replacement to alleviate pain and restore function.
Types of Hand Surgery for Hand Injuries
Hand surgery encompasses a variety of procedures tailored to treat different injuries and conditions affecting the hand. Here is a detailed description of the common types of hand surgery:
Carpal Tunnel Release
This surgery is performed to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by pressure felt on the wrist from the median nerve. The procedure consists of cutting the ligament from the roof of the carpal tunnel, thereby relieving pressure on the nerve.
Tendon Repair
Tendons, the tissues that connect muscle to bone, can be damaged through cuts or ruptures. Tendon repair surgery reattaches the severed ends or mends the torn tendon. This can be a delicate procedure, as tendons can sometimes retract after injury.
Fracture Repair
In cases of broken bones in the hand or fingers, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones. This can involve the use of pins, screws, or plates to hold the bones in place so that they heal properly.
Trigger Finger Release
Trigger finger is a condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position. The surgery involves releasing the tendon sheath that is causing the finger to catch or lock.
Joint Replacement
In cases of severe arthritis or injury, joints in the hand or fingers may need to be replaced. This involves removing the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial implant, often made of metal or plastic.
Nerve Repairs
Damage to nerves in the hand can result in loss of sensation or function. Surgery to repair hand nerves involves reconnecting the nerve ends or grafting nerves from other areas of the body if the gap is significant.
Arthroscopy
This minimally invasive surgery uses a small camera (arthroscope) to diagnose and treat joint problems in the hand. It is useful for exploring undiagnosed pain or repairing small structures within the joint.
Safe Hand Surgery in Eldersburg, MD
Deciding on hand surgery is no small matter. It is a journey that requires careful consideration, expert advice, and a thorough understanding of both the procedure and its aftermath. Our hands are not just tools; they are our connection to the world, enabling us to touch, feel, and interact. Protecting their health is vital. Remember, while surgery might be a path to restoring function and alleviating pain, it is equally important to consider all available options and preventive measures.
Do not let a hand injury hold you back! Visit the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland today and take the first step towards healing. Our expert team specializes in advanced hand care, ensuring personalized treatments and compassionate support.
Contact us by calling (410) 644-1880 or visit our website to secure an appointment online.
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