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Five Questions to Ask Yourself When Selecting a Hand Surgeon

Triangle Region / 19 Sep 2019

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EmergeOrtho
by EmergeOrtho
Five Questions to Ask Yourself When Selecting a Hand Surgeon

We rely on our hands for everything—even the simplest of tasks. Think about tying your shoes, picking up a glass of water, and even washing your face and hair! When conditions such as osteoarthritis of the hand, hand fractures, and carpal tunnel syndrome impede daily activities and range of motion in the hand and wrist, surgery can help restore mobility and reduce pain.

If surgery is recommended for a condition affecting the healthy function of your hand, it is important to do your research. Having an expert orthopedic hand surgeon can ensure a safe and effective recovery; it’s time to return you to the life of motion you deserve.

EmergeOrtho–Triangle Region has an entire team dedicated to treating orthopedic hand and wrist issues. Our board-certified hand and wrist surgeons are here to help you navigate every step of your surgery—from what to expect before surgery to how you can maximize the healing process.

What Types of Surgery do Orthopedic Hand Surgeons Perform?

There are several hand and wrist conditions that may require surgical intervention. Take a look at a few types of hand surgeries your orthopedic physician may suggest based on your specific condition.

  • Carpal Tunnel Release
    Carpal Tunnel Release is a surgical procedure to help relieve the pressure on the median nerve. Your surgeon may choose to perform this surgery endoscopically utilizing a miniature camera (endoscope) for ultimate precision.
  • Open Surgery
    Fractures of the hand and wrist may require the use of screws, plates, wires, and other small metal devices to repair the damage.
  • Joint Fusion or Joint Replacement
    When an arthritic joint does not respond to non-surgical treatment methods, an orthopedic surgeon may perform a joint fusion or joint replacement. Although joint fusions often eliminate pain, they will not restore mobility. Metal and plastic parts are used in the event that a joint replacement is preferable to joint fusion.

If you are suffering from painful and uncomfortable symptoms due to osteoarthritis in the hand, carpal tunnel syndrome, a hand fracture, or another condition of the hand and wrist, you should consult with a hand surgeon. Even though a primary doctor may refer you to a specific surgeon, it is always a wise idea to conduct your own investigation of orthopedic hand surgeons.

Five Questions to Help You Narrow Your Search for an Orthopedic Hand Surgeon

You can find any surgeon simply by doing a search for a “hand surgeon near me,” but what about when it comes to finding a specialized hand surgeon? One way to help find an expert and practiced orthopedic hand surgeon is to go into your search with a few questions in mind.

Take a look at five questions to help narrow your search for a reputable, hand surgeon:

  1. Does the surgical practice you are considering offer subspecialty orthopedic care?
    While some orthopedic practices offer “general orthopedic services,” opting for an orthopedic practice that offers subspecialty care is important. At EmergeOrtho–Triangle Region, for example, we have an exclusive and dedicated team of physicians specializing in hand and wrist diagnosis, treatment, and surgery.
  2. A dark-haired woman patient observes an iPad image of her injured hand; a Doctor points out areas of the hand in need of repair. What is the educational background and credentials of the surgeon you are investigating?
    Hand surgeons are required to undergo special training, exclusively focused on the intricate bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the hand and wrist. As part of their education requirements, subspecialty hand surgeons must complete an additional full year of training. Similarly, a rigorous certifying examination takes place to qualify for hand and wrist surgery board certification.
  3. How much experience does a hand surgeon have in performing the surgery you require?
    Most people would not opt for brain surgery from a surgeon who has only performed it once! The same should go for one of your most beloved appendages. If a potential surgeon’s vitae does not include their experience in hand and wrist surgeries, do not be afraid to ask.
  4. Where will the surgery be performed?
    Some orthopedic practices perform hand and wrist surgery at a nearby hospital or surgical center, while others can offer surgical procedures on site.
  5. What other services does your prospective surgeon offer?
    Again, some general orthopedic practices only offer limited services. Subspeciality orthopedic practices like EmergeOrtho–Triangle Region, however, offer a variety of orthopedic and non-orthopedic specialty services.

No matter what condition requires hand and wrist surgery, the sophisticated and innovative approaches of EmergeOrtho–Triangle Region’s surgeons are here for you.

To learn more, self-schedule an appointment now. Or, call us any time at (919) 220-5255.

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