What is Hand & Elbow Surgery?
Hand and elbow surgery treats a wide range of conditions, including fractures, immobility from accidents, bone abnormalities, and deformities. These surgeries aim to correct bone alignment and restore functionality. Performed by expert orthopedic surgeons specializing in these areas, the procedures ensure effective treatment and recovery.
Types of Hand & Elbow Surgery
Elbow Surgery: This type of surgery addresses problems in the elbow joint, which may involve bones, tendons, muscles, or nerves. Common conditions requiring surgery include:
- Tennis Elbow: Caused by repetitive motion, such as swinging a tennis racket. It results in pain and tenderness around the elbow and forearm, potentially affecting grip strength. Surgery is rarely needed; most cases improve with medication and physical therapy.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: This occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow, often due to overuse. It leads to tingling or numbness in the small and ring fingers. Rest and rehabilitation typically resolve the issue, but surgery may be needed in severe cases.
- Biceps/Triceps Muscle Rupture: A sudden trauma or repetitive strain can cause a partial or complete rupture of the biceps or triceps muscles. This results in severe pain, bruising, and limited movement. Complete ruptures require surgery, while partial ruptures may be treated with physical therapy, braces, or surgery depending on severity.
- Golfer’s Elbow: Repeated twisting or throwing motions can cause pain and stiffness in the inner elbow, often affecting sports performance. If conservative treatments like physical therapy fail, surgery may be necessary to restore function.
- Elbow Dislocation/Fracture: A traumatic injury that requires emergency intervention. Treatment typically involves fixation and repair to restore the joint. In cases of severe damage, total elbow replacement may be necessary.
- Psoriatic Elbow: Psoriasis can cause inflammation in the elbow joint, leading to swelling, tenderness, and limited mobility. If joint damage is severe, surgery may be required, often in consultation with a rheumatologist.
Hand Surgery: Hand surgery is performed to correct injuries or conditions affecting the hand bones, tendons, or nerves. Common surgeries include:
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: An inflammation of the tendon sheath at the base of the thumb, often caused by repetitive motion. Treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medications, but surgery may be needed for severe cases.
- Carpal Tunnel Release: Inflammation of the median nerve, often due to conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause tingling and numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Surgery to release pressure in the carpal tunnel is required for effective relief.
- Wrist Sprain/Fracture: Sudden trauma or twisting can lead to a sprain or fracture of the wrist, causing intense pain and requiring immediate surgical intervention.
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