Our procedures cover three main kinds of problems with the appearance or function of your hand:
- those that result from injury
- those arising from degenerative conditions such as Carpal tunnel Syndrome, Dupuytren's disease or arthritis
- and abnormalities you were born with
Injuries
Most acute hand injuries including broken bones and lacerations are best managed urgently in public hospitals. If the presentation of the injury is delayed, or if there is a functional problem following the initial treatment of the injury, we are very happy to review and advise you on appropriate further management.
We use surgery to repair damage to tendons, nerves, joints, and bones in your hand. In some cases, we graft tissue from a healthy part of your body onto the injured part. Usually these procedures are covered by ACC. A referral from your GP with information regarding the initial injury is useful.
Dupuytren's disease
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition where there is progressive fibrosis (thickening) of the palm of the hand. This can be associated with restriction on straightening the fingers and can cause significant functional problems. Our surgeons all offer surgical procedures to correct this condition including excision of the diseased tissue and sometimes including skin grafting. We use surgery to correct hand abnormalities that are present at birth such as too many or too few fingers, webbed fingers or joints that won't bend.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome arises when the main nerve supplying feeling in the hand is compressed at your wrist causes tingling, numbness, and pain in your hand. We can use surgery to release the tight bands at the wrist to make more room for the nerve.
Birth abnormalities
We use surgery to correct hand abnormalities that are present at birth such as too many or too few fingers, webbed fingers or joints that won't bend.