Hand Surgery in Meridian
From The Boise Hand Center
Dr. Cole, a highly experienced Orthopedic Hand surgeon in Meridian at Boise Plastic Surgery and Boise Hand Center, specializes in treating common medical conditions that can afflict the hand. With his extensive training and experience in plastic and orthopedic hand surgery, he is equipped to provide expert care for hand pain, numbness or injury. Dr. Cole has a long history of performing cutting edge hand surgery using the most contemporary techniques. He is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome with minimal downtime for patients requiring hand surgery.
What Are Common Hand Disorders That Require Surgery?
Carpal TunnelSyndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of a nerve in your wrist, which causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hand or fingers. The traditional, older surgical option requires a substantial incision on the palm that may require 4-6 weeks to adequately heal.
However, Dr. Cole offers the most cutting edge technique: No-Stitch endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release. Instead of a 1 inch cut directly in the palm, the “No Stitch” procedure only requires a small 3 mm access site at the wrist. Dr. Cole then uses a small camera to release nerve pressure. Because the incision is so minimal, this often doesn’t require any suture whatsoever. This much smaller incision at the wrist, not the palm, often allows patients to return to normal function after only 1 week, compared to 5-6 weeks following the older, traditional technique.
Trigger Finger: Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition where the tendon that controls a specific finger becomes inflamed and unable to move smoothly through its sheath. This can happen if part of the tendon sheath swells or if a small lump forms in its place. Trigger finger is often painful and limiting in daily activities such as gripping or closing the hand. Fortunately for those suffering from trigger finger, Dr. Cole can perform a 5-minute trigger finger release procedure in his clinic with a local anesthetic. This quick, 5 minute procedure immediately and permanently alleviates triggering with minimal discomfort. If the patient prefers, this procedure can also be done under more involved anesthetic in the OR room if they feel more comfortable doing so.
Hand pain/ Arthritis: Arthritis in the hands is caused by wear and tear on joints due to aging or other factors such as genetics or lifestyle choices. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, joint deformity, pain, tenderness, or redness around the affected area. Non-surgical treatment usually involves a combination of anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections or physical therapy to help with the range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the joints. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints for better functioning in daily activities.
Dupuytren’s Contracture: Dupuytren’s Contracture is a genetic hand condition characterized by thickened nodules and cords within the hands and finger tissue that can permanently cause the digits to bend towards the palm. Treatment options include surgery to remove cord formations, depending on the severity of the condition and patient goals.
What is the Recovery Process After Hand Surgery?
The recovery time after hand surgery can vary greatly depending on the procedure and the patient. While some procedures may require only a few days of rest, more complicated surgeries may involve specialized techniques requiring extended time for healing. Depending on the severity level, recovery times can range from a few days to multiple weeks.
Patients can typically return to work after surgery, with minor restrictions near the surgical site. During this recovery period, the patient’s best interest is to follow Dr. Cole’s post-op instructions for optimal results. This often includes avoiding any stress or strain at the surgical site and refraining from lifting more than five pounds. In cases where a splint is necessary post-operatively, patients should avoid getting it wet or removing it.
Patients can rest assured that Dr. Cole will do everything possible to help make the surgery and recovery as comfortable as possible. Dr. Cole will use a nerve block to reduce sensation in the area where the surgery was performed to minimize any discomfort. In addition, generous and reasonable post-op medications are usually prescribed to help manage residual pain. It is important to note that, while some swelling after surgery is normal, if an any signs of infection appear at the incision site ,this should always be promptly brought to the attention of Dr. Cole for an immediate consultation.
Patients can drive after surgery only once they are off any post-op narcotics and feel confident and comfortable driving. This can vary greatly depending on the patient’s particular medical situation and may be highly dependent on Dr. Cole’s recommendations. It is also important to consider how to sleep after undergoing hand surgery, as uncomfortable positioning of the affected hand can slow down healing. Sleeping in a position that makes you comfortable is encouraged; avoid putting pressure or weight on the affected hand.
Pursuing physical therapy following your procedure may also be necessary to achieve optimal results. Depending on the type of surgery performed, physical therapy may be encouraged after completion of the healing process. Dr. Cole will discuss the potential need for physical therapy with each patient following their healing process. If the patient desires, Dr. Cole is always happy to supplement the surgical process with physicial therapy.
Meet Dr. Patrick Cole, winner of Top Doctor’s prestigious Best Hand Surgeon in Boise, Idaho, for 2020, 2021, 2022 and counting!
If you’re looking for the most caring, most cutting-edge hand surgeon in Meridian, look no further than Dr. Cole at Boise Plastic Surgery and Boise Hand Center! At each and every appointment, you will personally be seen and evaluated by Dr. Cole. With his warm bedside manner, constant attention to detail and top notch surgical training at Baylor College of Medicine within the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical center, it’s no wonder why he was voted Most Outstanding Plastic and Orthopedic Hand Surgeon five years in a row! Don’t wait any longer – if you need impeccable hand care now, call our office now to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cole today!