Frequently asked questions
Check out our FAQ section and if you still have questions, write to us.
What is hand surgery?
Hand surgery is a subspecialty of traumatology or plastic surgery that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and postoperative care of any pathology affecting the hand and its related structures (wrist and elbow). It is essential to combine techniques from various specialties such as vascular surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, and traumatology.
What conditions does a hand surgeon treat?
A hand surgeon treats any condition affecting the hand or wrist, recommending surgery in cases where optimal recovery is not expected with conservative treatment, or after a period of time without improvement.
Can a hand surgeon be an orthopedic surgeon or a plastic surgeon?
As with other types of surgery, such as spinal surgery (which can be performed by an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon), hand surgery can be performed by both orthopedic surgeons and plastic surgeons; the important thing is to have completed specific training in hand and wrist surgery, to the point that in some countries hand surgery is considered an independent medical specialty.
How do I know if I need hand surgery?
It will depend on the specific condition and how it progresses. A proper evaluation by a hand surgeon is essential to determine whether or not surgery is necessary in your particular case.
What type of anesthesia is used in hand surgery?
Most procedures can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation, or under a locoregional (brachial plexus) block, so the patient can be awake during the procedure.
When can rehabilitation begin after hand surgery?
It depends on the condition treated, but in most cases, it’s recommended to start immediately after the procedure to try to regain the maximum possible range of motion. The exception would be conditions that require immobilization for a period of time, in which case the start of rehabilitation should be delayed.
What are the most common conditions you treat?
Although hand surgery is very broad, the most frequently treated conditions are: carpal tunnel syndrome, stenosing flexor tenosynovitis (trigger finger), De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, hand or wrist fractures, and ganglion cysts.
Where can I book an appointment?
You can find us at HLA El Ángel Hospital in Málaga, Vithas Xanit International Hospital in Benalmádena, and Quirón Hospital in Marbella.
