Hand and Wrist Surgery
We use our hands and wrists for almost every daily activity, so an injury to this area can be debilitating and significantly impact a person’s ability to work, socialise and live independently.
Due to the complex anatomy of bones, tendons, nerves, and ligaments, these injuries require the expertise of a specialist. Ortho ARC Orthopaedic Specialists, Dr Blake Fidock and Dr Mirun Thayaparan, provide assessment, surgical management and follow-up care for hand and wrist fractures and soft tissue injuries in Brisbane.
Common Hand and Wrist Injuries
Ortho ARC treats a wide range of hand and wrist injuries, from minor fractures to complex multi-tissue problems. Common conditions we see include:
- Fractures: Breaks in the small bones of the hand (metacarpals, phalanges) or the small carpal bones of the wrist.
- Tendon Injuries: Tears or cuts to the tendons that control finger and wrist movement.
- Ligament Injuries: Sprains or tears of the ligaments, which can lead to instability.
Patients commonly ask about the importance of seeing a specialist. The intricate nature of the hand means careful assessment and management are important for supporting healing and reducing the risk of long-term issues such as stiffness or reduced grip strength.
Meet our Orthopaedic Specialists
Dr Blake Fidock and Dr Mirun Thayaparan provide assessment and treatment for a range of orthopaedic conditions across Brisbane.
Surgical Solutions: Fractures
The surgical procedure for a hand or wrist injury is tailored to the specific problem. Dr Fidock’s and Dr Thayaparan's surgical plans are based on the type and severity of the injury.
- Fracture Fixation: For a displaced or unstable fracture, your Ortho ARC surgeon may use plates, screws or wires to restore the bone’s alignment and provide stability.
- Tendon Repair: For a torn or cut tendon, the surgeon will carefully stitch the ends of the tendon together.
- Ligament Reconstruction: For severe ligament tears, the surgeon may repair the ligament or use a graft to reconstruct it.
The goal of the surgery is to restore the anatomy and provide a stable environment for healing.
The Surgical Goals
The primary goals of hand and wrist surgery are to:
- Restore Anatomy: Confirm the bones, tendons, and ligaments are in their correct anatomical position.
- Achieve Stability: Provide a stable environment for the soft tissues and bones to heal.
- Promote Early Mobilisation: A stable fixation may enable earlier rehabilitation, supporting mobility and recovery.
Patients commonly ask about the recovery process, and though every patient’s recovery is different, commitment to your tailored rehabilitation plan is instrumental in regaining movement and function.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from hand and wrist surgery requires a strong commitment to the rehabilitation process.
- Initial Phase: A cast or splint is used to protect the hand and wrist during the initial healing period.
- Hand Therapy: A structured hand therapy program is essential to regain strength and a full range of motion. The therapist may guide the patient through gentle exercises to restore finger, hand, and wrist function.
- Return to Activity: Patients will be guided on when they can resume light activities and, eventually, sports or more strenuous work.
Patients often ask about the recovery timeline. While a return to light activities can take several weeks, recovery timelines vary and may extend over several months depending on individual circumstances.
Why Choose Ortho ARC for Hand and Wrist Surgery?
Hand and wrist surgery requires a high level of surgical skill and a detailed understanding of the intricate anatomy. Ortho ARC provides evidence-based surgical care supported by clear communication, careful treatment planning and ongoing follow-up.
If you have sustained a hand or wrist injury, request a referral for Ortho ARC to discuss assessment and treatment options.
Experience Relief. Regain Mobility.
Schedule your consultation with Ortho ARC today, and take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle.