I hope that you are doing well.  Here are some aftercare instructions you might find helpful.

 

General information:

• It is common to note swelling in the forearm and sometimes the hand and wrist.

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• Sometimes patients can note some bruising in the upper arm, elbow and forearm.  Although the there is generally no bleeding at the conclusion of the procedure some subsequent bleeding can result in the formation of a bruise which often resolves over several weeks.

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• Also, common over the first 6 weeks to note increasing firmness around the incision.  This is often secondary to the formation of scar tissue.  

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• Sometimes small gaps can form at the incision site in between stitches, if they are small appearing and not associated with drainage or other signs of infection they often will fill in with new skin over the first several weeks.

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• Generally after hand surgery the hand does not feel quite as strong and gripping and while using the hand for manual activities people note some loss of strength this often begins to improve over several months following surgery

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• If there is ever a question or concern about the appearance of the arm or hand or any other concern please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

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Surgical Bandages:

• Remove surgical bandages day after surgery.  Wash your arm with soap and water. (I have found foam soap easiest to apply to a surgical wound).  Keep wound clean and dry with a fresh Band-Aids.

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• Some patients utilize a soap called Hibiclens if they are not allergic.  It is sold in liquid and foaming versions as well, many patients might prefer foaming version.

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• Place light compression around elbow (and elbow brace compression sleeve -neoprene type is helpful, but can use Ace wrap's if needed) to help with swelling.

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Pain management:

• If you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil), these often are adequate to manage pain.  If you cannot alternative pain medication can be provided.  If you do not have a prescription already, another prescription can be sent to your pharmacy with alternative pain medications.

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Follow-up:

• If you do not have a follow-up appointment already scheduled, please contact the office and schedule appointment for 3 weeks from surgery.

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Movement:

• Work on flexing and extending your elbow rotating your forearm palm up and palm down, and moving your hand and wrist every hour while awake.

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• Here is a website that has helpful information for hand and finger. 

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C