What Does a Hand Surgeon Do? Understanding the Specialty
When most people think of surgery, they picture major operations in large operating rooms. But some of the most intricate and life-changing procedures happen on a much smaller scale—specifically, in the delicate realm of hand surgery. Hand surgeons are highly specialized medical professionals who focus on treating conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and forearms.
These specialists combine the precision of microsurgery with deep knowledge of complex anatomy to restore function and reduce pain in one of the body's most important tools. Whether you're dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, a traumatic injury, or arthritis that's affecting your daily activities, understanding what a hand surgeon does can help you make informed decisions about your care.
Let's explore this fascinating medical specialty and discover when you might need to consult with one of these experts.
The Scope of Hand Surgery
Hand surgery encompasses a surprisingly broad range of conditions and treatments. Unlike general orthopedic surgeons who treat the entire musculoskeletal system, hand surgeons focus exclusively on the intricate structures of the upper extremity—from the fingertips to the elbow.
Common Conditions Treated
Hand surgeons regularly treat both acute injuries and chronic conditions. Traumatic injuries might include fractures of the small bones in the hand, tendon lacerations, or crush injuries from accidents. These emergency situations require immediate attention to preserve function and prevent long-term complications.
Chronic conditions form another major part of a hand surgeon's practice. Carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and Dupuytren's contracture are among the most common issues patients face. These conditions develop over time and can significantly impact quality of life if left untreated.
Arthritis affecting the hands and wrists also falls under their expertise. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint degeneration that severely limits hand function. Hand surgeons can offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments to manage these conditions.
Surgical Procedures and Techniques
The procedures performed by hand surgeons range from relatively simple outpatient operations to complex microsurgical reconstructions. Many surgeries can be performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Nerve repair and reconstruction represent some of the most technically demanding procedures in hand surgery. When nerves are severed or compressed, surgeons must carefully reconnect these microscopic structures to restore sensation and function. This type of microsurgery requires specialized training and equipment.
Tendon repairs are equally complex, as these structures must glide smoothly through tight spaces while maintaining their strength. Surgeons often use specialized techniques to ensure tendons heal properly and maintain their range of motion.
Joint replacement and fusion procedures help patients with severe arthritis. While joint replacement can preserve motion, fusion eliminates painful movement by permanently joining bones together. The choice between these approaches depends on the specific joint involved and the patient's functional needs.
When to See a Hand Surgeon
Knowing when to seek specialized care can make a significant difference in your outcome. While your primary care physician or general orthopedic surgeon might initially evaluate hand problems, certain symptoms warrant direct consultation with a hand specialist.
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Attention
Some symptoms indicate urgent problems that need immediate evaluation. Sudden loss of sensation or inability to move fingers normally could signal nerve damage that requires prompt treatment. Similarly, any injury involving deep cuts, especially those near joints or on the palm side of the hand, should be evaluated immediately.
Severe pain that doesn't improve with rest and over-the-counter medications might indicate fractures or other serious injuries. When pain interferes with sleep or basic daily activities, it's time to seek professional evaluation.
Chronic Symptoms Worth Investigating
Persistent numbness or tingling, particularly at night or when performing repetitive activities, often indicates nerve compression. These symptoms shouldn't be ignored, as early treatment typically leads to better outcomes than waiting until the condition becomes severe.
Progressive stiffness or loss of grip strength can signal developing arthritis or tendon problems. While these conditions might develop gradually, early intervention can often slow progression and maintain function.
Any visible deformity of the fingers or hands warrants evaluation, even if it's not currently causing pain. Conditions like Dupuytren's contracture can progress over time, and early treatment options are often less invasive than waiting until the deformity becomes severe.
The Treatment Approach
Hand surgeons typically begin with conservative treatments whenever possible. Many conditions respond well to non-surgical interventions, making surgery unnecessary for numerous patients.
Non-Surgical Options
Splinting and bracing form the foundation of many treatment plans. These devices can rest injured structures, correct alignment, or prevent further damage while natural healing occurs. Custom splints are often more effective than over-the-counter options because they're designed specifically for each patient's anatomy and condition.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in both treating existing conditions and preventing recurrence. Therapists specializing in hand rehabilitation understand the unique challenges these injuries present and can design programs to restore function while protecting healing tissues.
Injection therapies, including corticosteroids and newer treatments like platelet-rich plasma, can provide significant relief for certain conditions. These minimally invasive treatments can often delay or eliminate the need for surgery.
Surgical Intervention
When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, surgery becomes necessary. Hand surgeons are trained to perform these procedures with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues, often using specialized techniques that promote faster healing and better outcomes.
The recovery process following hand surgery requires careful coordination between the surgeon, physical therapist, and patient. Early mobilization is often crucial to prevent stiffness, but this must be balanced against the need to protect healing structures.
Choosing the Right Specialist
Finding an orthopedic surgeon in Deltona, FL who specializes in hand surgery requires some research. Board certification in orthopedic surgery is essential, but additional fellowship training in hand surgery indicates the highest level of specialization.
Experience with your specific condition matters significantly. Surgeons who regularly treat your particular problem are likely to achieve better outcomes than those who encounter it only occasionally. Don't hesitate to ask about a surgeon's experience and success rates with your condition.
The surgical facility's capabilities also affect your care quality. Centers equipped with specialized microscopes, nerve monitors, and other advanced equipment can offer more sophisticated treatment options.
Taking the Next Step
Hand problems shouldn't be ignored, as many conditions become more difficult to treat as they progress. Early evaluation by a qualified specialist can often prevent minor issues from becoming major problems requiring extensive treatment.
If you're experiencing persistent hand pain, numbness, stiffness, or any other concerning symptoms, professional evaluation is warranted. Even if surgery isn't necessary, a hand specialist can often provide treatments that significantly improve your quality of life.
If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Deltona, FL, contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today for more information. Their experienced team can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options to get you back to the activities you enjoy.