Minimally Invasive Hand Surgery: What You Need to Know
Hand and wrist conditions can significantly impact daily life, making simple tasks like typing, cooking, or even holding a cup of coffee challenging. Fortunately, advances in medical technology have made it possible to treat many hand conditions with minimally invasive hand surgery, offering patients a faster recovery with less pain and scarring. In this article, we’ll explore what minimally invasive hand surgery is, its benefits, and what patients can expect. What Is Minimally Invasive Hand Surgery? Minimally invasive hand surgery involves techniques that require smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and advanced imaging to diagnose and treat hand and wrist issues with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions, minimally invasive techniques allow surgeons to work with precision while reducing patient discomfort and recovery time. Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Hand Surgery Minimally invasive techniques can effectively treat a variety of hand and wrist conditions, including: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – A condition caused by compression of the median nerve, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand. Trigger Finger – A condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position and then suddenly snaps straight. Dupuytren’s Contracture – A disorder that causes thickening of tissue under the skin of the palm, leading to restricted finger movement. Arthritis in the Hand and Wrist – Minimally invasive procedures can help relieve pain and restore mobility. Tendon and Ligament Injuries – Small incisions allow surgeons to repair damaged tendons with minimal disruption. Benefits of Minimally Invasive Hand Surgery Choosing minimally invasive hand surgery offers several advantages, including: Smaller Incisions – Leading to minimal scarring and better cosmetic outcomes. Reduced Pain – Less trauma to surrounding tissues results in lower post-operative pain. Faster Recovery – Many patients can return to daily activities sooner than with traditional surgery. Lower Risk of Complications – Smaller incisions mean a reduced risk of infection and other complications. Outpatient Procedures – Many minimally invasive surgeries can be performed as outpatient procedures, allowing patients to go home the same day. What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery Before Surgery: Your doctor will evaluate your condition through imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. You may need to stop certain medications before the procedure. Instructions on fasting and post-surgical care will be provided. During Surgery: Local or regional anesthesia is typically used to numb the area. The surgeon makes small incisions and uses specialized tools to perform the procedure. Advanced imaging, such as an endoscope, may guide the surgeon for precision. After Surgery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return home the same day. A splint or bandage may be applied to protect the area. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid recovery and restore function. Is Minimally Invasive Surgery Right for You? Not all hand conditions require surgery, and a consultation with a hand specialist will determine the best treatment plan. If you are experiencing persistent hand pain, numbness, or limited movement, minimally invasive hand surgery might be a great option for you. At Melbourne Hand Center, we specialize in cutting-edge hand and wrist treatments designed to get you back to living pain-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
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