Hand

Hand surgeons are specialized orthopedic or plastic surgeons who diagnose, treat, and manage various hand problems. They have expertise in surgical and non-surgical interventions for conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. Here are some common hand problems that are treated by hand surgeons:

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
   • Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed.
   • Hand surgeons may recommend non-surgical treatments such as splinting, medication, and hand therapy. In more severe cases, surgical options like carpal tunnel release may be performed to relieve the pressure on the nerve.
2. Trigger Finger:
   • Trigger finger is a condition where the flexor tendons of the finger become inflamed, causing the finger to lock or catch when bending or straightening.
   • Hand surgeons may prescribe splinting, corticosteroid injections, or anti-inflammatory medications. If conservative measures fail, a surgical procedure called trigger finger release may be performed to release the affected tendon.
3. Dupuytren’s Contracture:
   • Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition characterized by the progressive thickening and tightening of the connective tissue in the palm, resulting in the fingers being pulled into a bent position.
   • Hand surgeons may monitor the progression of the condition and recommend non-surgical treatments such as hand therapy, splinting, or collagenase injections. Surgical intervention, such as fasciectomy or fasciotomy, may be necessary in more advanced cases.
4. Ganglion Cysts:
   • Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that commonly develop near joints or tendons, most frequently on the back of the wrist or the base of the fingers.
   • Hand surgeons may recommend observation if the cyst is not causing symptoms. If the cyst is painful or interfering with hand function, aspiration (draining the fluid) or surgical excision may be performed.
5. Hand Fractures:
   • Hand surgeons are skilled in treating fractures of the hand and fingers, which may result from traumatic injuries or repetitive stress.
   • Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. It may involve non-surgical methods such as casting, splinting, or buddy taping. Surgical intervention, such as fracture reduction or fixation with pins, plates, or screws, may be necessary for complex fractures.
6. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis:
   • Hand surgeons play a role in managing arthritis of the hand, including rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease) and osteoarthritis (wear and tear of the joints).
   • Treatment may involve a combination of medications, splinting, hand therapy, and joint injections. In some cases, surgical options such as joint fusion or joint replacement may be considered.
7. Tendon and Nerve Injuries:
   • Hand surgeons are skilled in repairing tendon and nerve injuries that affect hand function, such as flexor or extensor tendon injuries, and nerve compressions (e.g., cubital tunnel syndrome or radial tunnel syndrome).
   • Treatment may involve surgical repair, grafting, or nerve decompression procedures, followed by hand therapy to restore function and optimize recovery.

The Hand surgeons of the Eisenhower Clinic are highly trained specialists who work closely with patients to provide personalized treatment plans based on the individual’s condition, symptoms, and goals.