Hand Surgery Newcastle

Typically, it may be recommended to perform procedures on one hand at a time to allow use of the other hand during recovery. However, this will largely depend on one’s health and circumstances. We encourage you to discuss your individual treatment goals Dr Mistry. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed as it passes through the narrow passageway of the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This nerve compression can result in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that is made up of bones and ligaments. The median nerve, along with tendons that control finger movement, passes through this tunnel. When the space within the tunnel is reduced due to swelling or inflammation, it can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to the symptoms of CTS.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors including repetitive hand movements, prolonged use of vibrating tools, pregnancy, diabetes, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment options for CTS include splinting, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have CTS, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

Surgery is not always the first option for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). In fact, most people with CTS will be successfully treated with non-surgical measures such as splinting, physical therapy, and medication.

However, if conservative treatments are not effective or if symptoms are severe, surgery may be recommended. Carpal Tunnel Surgery, also known as Carpal Tunnel Release, is a procedure that involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve to relieve the pressure and reduce symptoms. The surgery can be performed as an open procedure, where the surgeon makes a small incision in the palm of the hand, or as an endoscopic procedure, where the surgeon uses a small camera to guide the surgery through a tiny incision.

Surgery for CTS can be very effective in relieving symptoms and improving hand function, but it is not without risks, like any surgical procedure. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of surgery with your doctor and to carefully consider all treatment options before making a decision.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery is an outpatient procedure done under anaesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in the hand or wrist, cut the ligament pressing on the median nerve, and

then close the incision. Recovery time is relatively short, and patients will need to follow up with their surgeon for a post-operative checkup and rehabilitation instructions. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, which your doctor will discuss with you before the surgery.

Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive hand condition that affects the connective tissue beneath the skin in the palm and fingers. It’s characterised by the formation of thickened and often shortened cords of tissue, known as nodules, which can cause the affected fingers to bend and curl towards the palm. This can result in a loss of finger mobility and make it difficult to fully straighten the fingers. Dupuytren’s contracture typically affects the ring and little fingers most commonly, but it can affect any finger. The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is not fully understood, but factors like genetics, age, gender (it’s more common in men), and certain lifestyle factors might play a role. While the condition is not usually painful, it can lead to functional impairment. Treatment options include observation, non-surgical interventions like injections to soften the cords, and in more severe cases, surgical procedures to release the contracted tissue and restore finger movement.

The exact causes of Dupuytren’s contracture are not fully elucidated, but a combination of genetic predisposition, age (more common in individuals over 50), male gender, Northern European ancestry, and potential links to medical conditions like diabetes and smoking are believed to contribute. An individual’s family history, ethnic background, and exposure to repetitive hand movements or vibrations might also play a role in the development of this progressive hand condition, which is characterised by the formation of thickened cords of tissue beneath the skin in the palm and fingers, leading to finger bending and reduced mobility.

If Dupuytren’s contracture is not treated, the condition can progress over time, potentially leading to increased contracture of the affected fingers. This means that the fingers can become more bent and curled towards the palm, resulting in reduced finger mobility and difficulty in performing everyday tasks that require the full extension of the fingers. Severe cases of Dupuytren’s contracture can result in a significant loss of hand function, making activities like grasping objects, typing, and even basic self-care more challenging. While the condition itself is not usually painful, the functional limitations it causes can have a substantial impact on an individual’s quality of life. Treatment options, including non-surgical interventions and surgical procedures, are available to manage the condition and prevent further progression, so it’s important to consult a medical professional for appropriate guidance and intervention.