5 Common Types of Hand Surgery 

Hand surgery is a very wide term that encompasses a range of conditions, surgeries, and methods. Let’s dive into some of the most common types of hand surgery.

According to the British Society for Surgery of the Hand, the demand for elective hand surgery is on the rise, with a prediction of a 39% increase in demand for common hand operations in the next 10 years. In addition, the number of patients being diagnosed with common hand conditions has increased. 

There are many different types of hand problems and conditions. It’s important that you speak with your doctor, who can give you the correct diagnosis. Then, you can seek the right course of treatment to help improve the condition. 

5 Common Types of Hand Surgery

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome anatomy, the Harley Clinic

Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect people of all ages, but it occurs more in people over 50. Sufferers often report pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand and fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome comes from the pressure on the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome release surgery aims to relieve pressure on the median nerve, freeing up the hand and wrist. 

2. Trigger Finger 

Trigger finger disease (locking finger or stenosing tenosynovitis disorder), hand anatomy with highlight on painful area. Patient has palm pain and catching of finger problem. Medical symptom concept
trigger finger

While trigger finger can be treated without surgery, sometimes, surgery is required. Trigger finger release surgery involves releasing the A1 pully so that the tendon can glide more freely through the tendon sheath. In severe cases, the affected finger can become stuck, and surgery may be recommended. 

3. Ganglion 

Ganglion cyst on man's hand. Hand holding computer mouse
Ganglion cyst on man’s hand.

If a ganglion cyst becomes painful or really starts to affect the movement of your hand or wrist, then surgery may be advised. If a ganglion doesn’t go away on its own, then your doctor may recommend either needle aspiration or removing the ganglion surgically. 

4. Dupuytren’s Contracture 

Dupuytren's Contracture
Hands of an man with Dupuytren contracture disease

Dupuytren’s contracture gradually progresses over time. In severe cases, the condition can cause your fingers to curl down into your hands. If this occurs, it can make doing daily tasks very difficult. Dupuytren’s contracture surgery focuses on removing the built-up tissue in the hands to release the fingers. 

5. De Quervain Syndrome 

De Quervain Syndrome Anatomy

De Quervain syndrome is most common in people in their 40s and 50s. The condition can cause pain that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Treatment involves non-surgical and surgical approaches, including splints, modifying activities, and corticosteroid injections. 

If symptoms do not improve, your doctor may recommend De Quervain syndrome surgery. The surgery aims to release the pressure that’s on the inflamed tendons to improve the movement of the wrist. The tendon glides through a tunnel. When the tunnel is inflamed, it stops that movement. The surgery looks to widen that tunnel. The procedure is also known as surgical decompression of the tendon tunnel.   

Hand Surgery at The Harley Clinic London 

If you’re considering hand surgery and would like to learn more about the treatment options available, book a consultation today at The Harley Clinic. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about the top surgical and non-cosmetic procedures, we’ve pulled together the latest figures in our ultimate guide on plastic surgery statistics

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