What is hand surgery?
Hand surgery is a specialized branch of surgery that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the hand and wrist. It encompasses a wide range of procedures, from simple laceration repairs to complex reconstructions. Hand surgeons are highly trained specialists who have undergone extensive education and training in order to provide the best possible care for patients with hand problems.
Conditions commonly treated by hand surgeons include:
- Traumatic injuries (fractures, dislocations, lacerations)
- Tendon injuries (ruptures, tears, adhesions)
- Nerve injuries (compression, lacerations, entrapment)
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Dupuytren's contracture
- Ganglion cysts
- Soft tissue tumors
Hand surgeons use a variety of treatment options to address these conditions, including:
- Nonsurgical treatments (splints, casting, physical therapy)
- Minimally invasive procedures (endoscopic surgery, arthroscopy)
- Open surgery (traditional surgery)
The goal of hand surgery is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients with hand problems. Hand surgeons strive to provide the best possible care and ensure that their patients receive the most effective treatment available.