Hand Surgery

Ganglion Cyst Surgery

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous lump that usually develops along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. These cysts are filled with a jelly-like fluid and can vary in size. Although generally harmless, they can become painful and interfere with joint movement.

Arthritis Surgery

Arthritis in the hand can cause severe pain, swelling, and reduced motion. It commonly affects the fingers and wrist, leading to significant discomfort and disability. Surgery may be necessary when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.

Tendon Repair Surgery

Tendon injuries in the hand can result from trauma, overuse, or inflammatory conditions. These injuries can severely impact hand function, causing pain and limiting movement. Tendon repair surgery aims to restore the normal function of the hand.

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that causes the tissues under the skin of your palm to thicken and tighten, leading to the fingers being pulled into a bent position. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, and surgery is often required to release the contracture.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it travels through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. This pressure can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. Surgery aims to relieve this pressure, improving symptoms.

Who Needs Hand Surgery?

Candidates for hand surgery vary depending on the specific condition. Generally, surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications, have not provided sufficient relief. Here are the candidates for each type of hand surgery:

Ganglion Cyst Surgery Candidates

• Individuals with a cyst that causes pain or discomfort
• Those experiencing interference with joint movement or function
• Patients who have tried non-surgical methods without success

Arthritis Surgery Candidates

• Individuals with severe arthritis causing significant pain and disability
• Those who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy
• Patients with joint deformities affecting hand function

Tendon Repair Surgery Candidates

• Individuals with tendon injuries resulting from trauma or overuse
• Those experiencing pain, weakness, or limited movement in the hand
• Patients with inflammatory conditions affecting the tendons

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery Candidates

• Individuals with fingers that are significantly bent and affecting daily activities
• Those whose contracture has progressed to the point where it interferes with hand function
• Patients who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Candidates

• Individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand
• Those who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as splinting or steroid injections
• Patients with nerve damage or muscle weakness in the hand

Benefits of Hand Surgery

Hand surgery offers many benefits, significantly improving your quality of life. Here are the primary advantages associated with each type of procedure:

Ganglion Cyst Surgery Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort caused by the cyst
• Improved joint movement and hand function
• Removal of unsightly lumps, enhancing the appearance of the hand

Arthritis Surgery Benefits

• Reduction in pain and swelling
• Improved joint function and range of motion
• Enhanced ability to perform everyday tasks

Tendon Repair Surgery Benefits

• Restoration of normal hand function
• Relief from pain and discomfort
• Prevention of further tendon damage

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery Benefits

• Improved hand function and ability to perform daily activities
• Straightening of affected fingers
• Prevention of progression of the contracture

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Benefits

• Relief from pain, numbness, and tingling
• Improved hand strength and function
• Prevention of permanent nerve damage

How is the Hand Surgery Performed?

The surgical approach varies depending on the specific condition and the type of procedure being performed. Here’s a general overview of how each type of hand surgery is conducted:

Ganglion Cyst Surgery Procedure

Ganglion cyst surgery can be performed under local or general anaesthesia. Anca makes a small incision over the cyst and carefully removes it along with its stalk to minimise the chance of recurrence. The incision is then closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied.

Arthritis Surgery Procedure

The specific technique used for arthritis surgery depends on the affected joint and the severity of the condition. For joint fusion, Anca removes the damaged cartilage and fuses the bones together using metal hardware. In joint replacement, the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant. Synovectomy involves removing the inflamed synovial tissue through an incision or arthroscopy.

Tendon Repair Surgery Procedure

Tendon repair surgery is typically performed under regional or general anaesthesia. For primary repair, Anca makes an incision over the injured tendon and sutures the torn ends together. In cases requiring grafting, a tendon graft is harvested from another part of the body and used to replace the damaged tendon. Tenolysis involves releasing adhesions around the tendon to restore movement.

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery Procedure

Dupuytren’s contracture surgery is usually done under regional or general anaesthesia. In a fasciotomy, Anca makes small incisions in the palm and cuts the thickened tissue. For a fasciectomy, the thickened tissue is removed through larger incisions. A dermofasciectomy involves removing both the thickened tissue and the overlying skin, followed by a skin graft to cover the area.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Procedure

Carpal tunnel syndrome surgery can be performed using an open or endoscopic approach. In open release surgery, Anca makes an incision in the wrist and cuts the carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Endoscopic surgery involves making small incisions and using a camera and specialised instruments to perform the surgery, resulting in less postoperative pain and a quicker recovery.

There are different surgical techniques employed to address different hand conditions. Each procedure is tailored to the specific needs of the patient and the severity of the condition.

Recovery after Hand Surgery

Recovery time and post-operative care vary depending on the type of hand surgery performed. Here are some general guidelines for each procedure:

Ganglion Cyst Surgery Recovery

After ganglion cyst surgery, you may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. Keeping the hand elevated can also help reduce swelling. You will likely need to wear a bandage or splint for a few days to protect the incision site. Most people can return to their normal activities within a week or two, but heavy lifting or strenuous activities should be avoided until fully healed.

Arthritis Surgery Recovery

Recovery from arthritis surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. Joint fusion and replacement surgeries typically require a longer recovery period, often involving physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion. You may need to wear a splint or cast for several weeks, and it can take several months to achieve full recovery. Pain and swelling can be managed with medication and ice packs.

Tendon Repair Surgery Recovery

After tendon repair surgery, you will likely need to wear a splint or cast to protect the repaired tendon and allow it to heal. Physical therapy is often necessary to regain strength and flexibility. The recovery period can vary, but it usually takes several weeks to a few months before you can return to normal activities. Pain and swelling can be managed with medication and ice packs.

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery Recovery

Recovery from Dupuytren’s contracture surgery involves wearing a splint to keep the fingers straight and undergoing physical therapy to restore movement. You may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with medication and ice packs. It can take several weeks to a few months to fully recover, and you may need to perform hand exercises to maintain flexibility.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Recovery

After carpal tunnel syndrome surgery, you will likely need to wear a splint to protect the wrist and allow it to heal. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. Most people can return to light activities within a few weeks, but it may take a few months to fully recover. Pain and swelling can be managed with medication and ice packs.

How Much is Hand Surgery in the UK?

The cost of hand surgery can vary widely depending on the specific procedure, the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon’s experience, and the geographic location. Here are some general estimates for each type of hand surgery:

Ganglion Cyst Surgery Cost

The cost of ganglion cyst surgery can range from £1,500 to £3,000, depending on whether it is performed in a hospital or an outpatient clinic. This cost typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, and facility charges.

Arthritis Surgery Cost

Arthritis surgery costs can vary significantly based on the type of procedure performed. Joint fusion or replacement surgery can range from £5,000 to £15,000, depending on the complexity and the type of implant used. Synovectomy costs can range from £3,000 to £7,000.

Tendon Repair Surgery Cost

The cost of tendon repair surgery can range from £2,000 to £6,000, depending on the extent of the injury and the complexity of the repair. This cost typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, and facility charges.

Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery Cost

The cost of Dupuytren’s contracture surgery can range from £2,500 to £8,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether a skin graft is required. This cost includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, and facility charges.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Cost

The cost of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery can range from £2,000 to £5,000, depending on whether an open or endoscopic approach is used.

Further Reading

• Read Anca’s Blog on Recovery after Cyst Removal
• Read Anca’s Blog on Treatment Options for Lipoma and Other Swellings
• Read Anca’s Blog on Treatments and Solutions for Skin Lumps and Bumps
• Read Anca’s Blog on Recovery after Lipoma Removal