There is nothing quite like a hand issue to make you realize how much you really rely on your hands. A hand problem can prevent you from doing the simplest of tasks. Holding a glass, typing, writing, and brushing your teeth are just some examples of tasks that become very difficult when you have a hand injury or condition.
If your hand problem does not respond to conventional treatment methods such as NSAIDs, rest and ice therapy, physical or occupational therapy, and other treatments, ask your doctor about whether hand surgery is a good option for you. Hand surgery is highly effective in easing pain and helping regain hand functionality when other treatments have failed.
Dr. Brock A. Norrie of The Bone & Joint Center specializes in upper extremity surgery and fracture care. These are some of the common types of hand surgeries performed by Dr. Norrie:
Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Carpal tunnel surgery is highly effective at easing symptoms of the condition. Also called carpal tunnel release or decompression surgery, this procedure involves severing a ligament near the wrist to alleviate pressure on the median nerve. Dr. Norrie performs both open release and endoscopic release carpal tunnel surgery. The former is a more traditional method that requires an incision to open up the area in order to perform the surgery. The latter is a minimally invasive method that uses an endoscope to help perform the procedure.
Finger Contracture Repair
This is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat patients with finger contractures that cause fingers to remain in a bent position. Dr. Norrie will perform this procedure with either a needle aponeurotomy to break up the tissue that is pulling the fingers in a bent position or by administering Xiaflex® enzyme injections into the problematic tissue. The medication breaks down the collagen and softens the tissue, allowing your fingers to return to normal.
Finger Joint Replacement
Dr. Norrie also performs finger joint replacement surgery for patients with damaged finger joints. During the procedure, Dr. Norrie will replace the damaged finger joint with an artificial one. This is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis to help relieve pain. After finger joint replacement surgery, you should be able to move your affected hand with little to no pain.
Hand Nerve Injury Surgery
Dr. Norrie performs hand nerve surgery for patients with a severed or compressed nerve. During the surgery, Dr. Norrie repairs the affected hand nerve. This is usually recommended for patients with carpal, radial, or cubital tunnel syndrome. Recovery typically involves splinting and hand therapy for a better outcome.
Tendon Transfer
With tendon transfer surgery, Dr. Norrie replaces your non-functioning tendon with a working tendon. This type of hand surgery is highly effective in restoring hand function. Patients with nerve injuries usually experience loss of muscle function, which affects the tendons.
Thumb CMC (Basal) Joint Reconstruction
This surgery is recommended to patients with arthritis in the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint or basal joint that limits the thumb’s range of motion. During the procedure, Dr. Norrie will make an incision at the base of the thumb to gain access to the affected joint and replace the damaged parts with artificial components.
Hand Surgery in North Dakota
In order to find out if you’re a good candidate for hand surgery, the first step is to reach out to Dr. Norrie. After a careful evaluation aided by advanced diagnostic imaging, he will make a diagnosis and determine the right procedure to treat your hand condition or injury. Dr. Norrie is on of the best in his field and will ensure you get the right treatment for your condition so you get the best results possible.
To make an appointment with Dr. Norrie, call (701) 946-7400 or (866) 900-8650 or request an appointment now. Dr. Norrie and his team look forward to serving you!
