Problems with the appearance or function of the hand can be the result of injury, birth defects or degenerative conditions.

 

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition in which a joint and the surrounding tissue become swollen and painful. If surgery is necessary, it may involve replacement of the joint with an artificial joint or removal or repair of swollen or damaged tissue.

 

Birth Abnormalities

Surgery may sometimes be required for 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

A pinched nerve in the wrist that causes tingling, numbness and pain in your hand may require surgery to make more room for the nerve. This operation is usually performed under local anaesthetic (the area being treated is numb but you are awake).

 

Injuries

Damage to tendons, nerves, joints and bones in the hand may require surgical repair. In some cases, tissue may be transferred from a healthy part of your body to the injured site (grafting).

 

Ganglia

Swellings may develop on the wrist, in the palm or on fingers; these ganglia are fluid-filled and communicate with underlying joints or tendon sheaths. Surgery is needed to remove them.

 

Dupuytren's Contracture

This condition occurs when there is abnormal thickening of the deep tissue between the palm of your hand and your fingers.  This thickening occurs very gradually and will start to make your fingers curl toward your palm.

 

If this condition gets to the stage where it significantly limits your hand function, surgery may be recommended.  This usually involves removal of the thickened tissue, allowing you to straighten your fingers again.