Hand & Microvascular Surgery
Comprehensive information about hand & microvascular surgery — its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery outlook to help you make informed healthcare decisions.
Overview
Hand surgery treats conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, fractures, and nerve injuries. Microvascular surgery uses tiny instruments and a microscope to repair small blood vessels and nerves. These advanced techniques help restore function and sensation in the hand.
Signs & Symptoms
- 01.Numbness, tingling, or pain in the fingers, especially at night.
- 02.A finger that catches or locks in a bent position and then snaps straight.
- 03.Difficulty gripping objects, dropping things, or loss of fine motor control.
Causes
- 01.Repetitive hand movements and prolonged gripping can compress nerves in the wrist.
- 02.Direct injury from cuts, crushing, or fractures can damage nerves and tendons.
- 03.Medical conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders can affect nerve function.
Risk Factors
- 01.Jobs involving repetitive wrist motions like typing, assembly work, or using vibrating tools.
- 02.Pregnancy and hormonal changes can temporarily increase carpal tunnel risk.
- 03.Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis raise the risk of nerve compression.
Types
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb and first three fingers.
Trigger Finger
A condition where a finger locks in a bent position due to inflammation of the tendon pulley at the base of the finger.
Dupuytren's Contracture
Thickening of the tissue beneath the palm, causing one or more fingers to bend toward the palm and making it hard to flatten the hand.
Diagnosis
- 01.Nerve conduction studies measure how well electrical signals travel through the nerves.
- 02.Ultrasound can visualize nerve compression and tendon inflammation.
- 03.Physical exam tests grip strength, sensation, and specific provocative maneuvers.
Treatment Approach
- 01.Wrist splints, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medication help mild cases.
- 02.Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around compressed nerves.
- 03.Surgery releases the compressed nerve or repairs damaged tendons and nerves.
Recovery & Follow-up
- 01.After carpal tunnel release, most patients return to light activities within 2 weeks.
- 02.Nerve repair recovery is slower, with sensation improving over several months.
- 03.Hand therapy is often needed for several months after complex surgeries.
Complications
- 01.Nerve damage can cause permanent numbness or weakness if not treated promptly.
- 02.Scar tissue may form around repaired tendons, limiting movement.
- 03.Infection or stiffness can occur after hand surgery but are usually manageable.
Prevention
- 01.Take frequent breaks and stretch your hands during repetitive work.
- 02.Use ergonomic tools and maintain good wrist posture while typing.
- 03.Manage underlying conditions like diabetes that affect nerve health.