HAND SURGERY
Dr Gupta performs hand surgery for a number of reasons. These include:
Fractures
Fractures of the hand can cause severe pain, and should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. In most cases, Dr Gupta will ensure that an x-ray is performed in order to properly evaluate your injury and decide on the best treatment option. He will also perform a physical examination to test range of motion and identify any possible nerve damage. In some cases, the fracture may require surgical repair. Surgery may involve the stabilisation and alignment of bones, and Dr Gupta may need to implant screws, wires or plates into the broken bones in order to secure them together. Sometimes, these implants are removed when the bones have healed properly, although in some cases, the implants are left in place.
After a hand fracture has been repaired, it will take some time until proper function is restored in the hand. It is quite normal to experience some joint stiffness, and Dr Gupta will also refer you to a physiotherapist and/or occupational therapist as needed.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage between the joints wears away, forcing the bones to rub together. This can cause structural changes to the bones, joint deformities, as well as considerable pain and discomfort.
Osteoarthritis usually affects certain areas of the hand, including the joint at the base of the thumb and the ends of the fingers. Imaging investigations will be performed as required before recommending surgery.
In severe cases of osteoarthritis in the hand, Dr Gupta may recommend surgery. Surgical options may include joint fusion, or joint reconstruction. During joint fusion, the bones are joined together. Joint reconstruction involves replacing the damaged surface of the joint with an implant or tissue graft.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition which occurs as a result of compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. Some common symptoms include pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in the hand and arm. If left untreated, the condition can worsen, causing nerve damage. In some cases, surgery is recommended, during which pressure is taken off the median nerve.
FAQ
Dr Gupta performs hand surgery to treat debilitating hand pain. Surgery is considered when the patient develops osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or hand-related fractures.
Surgery to alleviate pressure on the median nerve by incising the ligament that compresses the nerve may be appropriate when other treatments fail to relieve severe pain.
Once the broken fragments are repositioned, these pieces need to be held firmly in place. It can take weeks for the broken bones to heal, so they should be held in place over time.