The hands are remarkable tools that allow us to interact with the world around us. However, when injury, disease, or congenital conditions affect the hands, it can significantly impact daily life and functionality. This is where hand surgery, a specialized field within plastic surgery, works its magic by restoring function and mobility to the hands. Hand surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, both reconstructive and cosmetic, aimed at improving the structure and function of the hands.
Here are some key aspects of how hand surgery done at Boise plastic surgery can restore the magic of function and movement:
Trauma and Fracture Repair
Accidents, sports-related occurrences, or falls can cause hand injuries such as fractures or tendon injuries. Hand surgeons are skilled at carefully treating these wounds, realigning bones, and repairing torn tendons and ligaments. Hand surgery enables healing by restoring proper alignment and stability and helps individuals regain strength and grip.
Carpal Tunnel Release
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition characterized by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand. Hand surgeons perform carpal tunnel release surgery to alleviate pressure on the nerve by dividing the transverse carpal ligament.
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition where the connective tissue in the palm thickens and forms nodules, causing the fingers to bend and contract. Hand surgeons can perform procedures like fasciotomy or fasciectomy to remove or release the affected tissue, allowing the fingers to straighten and restore hand function.
Microsurgery and Nerve Repair
In severe hand injuries or amputations, microsurgery is vital in reconnecting blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and tissues. Hand surgeons use high-powered microscopes and specialized techniques to repair and reestablish nerve connections delicately. This intricate procedure can restore the hand’s sensation, movement, and fine motor skills.
Joint Reconstruction
Conditions like arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or joint deformities can significantly limit hand function. Hand surgeons perform joint reconstruction procedures, such as joint fusion or replacement, to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore joint stability. These surgeries enhance grip strength, finger movement, and overall hand functionality.
Congenital Hand Anomalies
Children born with congenital hand anomalies, such as syndactyly (webbed fingers) or polydactyly (extra fingers), can benefit from hand surgery. Surgeons use skin grafting, tissue rearrangement, or finger separation to reconstruct the hand’s anatomy and improve function, allowing children to grow and develop with greater hand mobility.
Preparing for hand surgery involves several important steps to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery. Find some considerations here:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a hand surgeon to discuss your condition, goals, and surgical options. They will evaluate your medical history or perform a physical examination and may order additional tests or imaging to assess your hand’s condition.
- Pre-operative Instructions: Follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include instructions on how long to fast before surgery, when to stop taking particular drugs or supplements, and how to make travel arrangements to and from the medical facility.
- Medical Clearance: Depending on your overall health, your surgeon may request medical clearance from your primary care physician or specialists to ensure you are fit for surgery.
Hand surgery requires surgical skills, intricate knowledge of hand anatomy, and a deep understanding of hand function. The goal is to restore not just the physical aspects of the hand but also the magic of movement, enabling individuals to regain independence, perform daily activities, and engage in the activities they love.
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