Before surgery:
Ask questions before surgery and make sure you understand: (1) your diagnosis, (2) the planned surgical procedure, (3) recovery process, and (4) possible complications. Write a list of your questions or concerns.
Please provide out office with a list of your current medications, doses, medical allergies, previous surgeries, and problems with anesthesia.
Wash your hands and forearms thoroughly with hand soap and warm water. Scrub and lather for 5-10 minutes. Clean under your fingernails.
Remove jewelry and body piercings. If you have tight-fitting rings, please remove them prior to the day of surgery. Leave valuables at home or with a loved one.
Arrange for someone to help you for 24 hours after the surgery, as some medications may make you drowsy and impair judgment.
If you smoke, plan a smoking cessation program. Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do for your health.
Day of surgery:
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
No not smoke or drink alcohol on the day of surgery.
Arrive early. Feel free to bring a book or magazine to read while waiting. The check-in process and preparation before surgery takes time.
After surgery, you will spend some time in the recovery area, usually less than one hour
After surgery:
Rest is important to allow the body time to heal and recover. Do not plan any strenuous activity for 48-72 hrs after surgery.
Elevation of the hand is important after surgery to reduce swelling. The hand should be elevated above the level of the heart at all times for the first few days after surgery. When sitting, a pillow can help maintain this position. An arm sling is not recommended as it holds the hand below your elbow and heart.
Please report problems and concerns to our office. Important signs and symptoms to report are: severe pain, swelling, temperature greater than 100 degrees F, wound redness, and discolored fingertips. If the bandage feels too tight, it can be gently loosened. Bruising and swelling are common, but should not be severe.
Take pain medications as prescribed. On the evening of surgery, avoid “getting behind” on your pain meds. Intense pain may result after the anesthetic (numbing medicine) wears off, so please take the medications as needed. Most patients are able to switch to non-narcotic, over-the-counter pain medications after several days. Notify our office if the pain medications do not reasonably control your pain. Plan ahead to avoid running out of medication during the evening or weekend, as they cannot be called in to the pharmacy by phone.
Keep the post-operative dressing and incision dry until instructed. When showering, cover the dressing with a thick plastic bag to prevent it from getting wet. Do not apply creams, lotions, or antibacterial products to your wound unless specifically instructed to do so.
Eat a well-balanced diet to promote healing. Keep hydrated by drinking several glasses of water per day. Do not smoke or chew tobacco. Tobacco products can decrease the blood flow to the hand, increasing the risk of infection and reducing your ability to heal after surgery.
If you have questions or concerns, please call our office at 919-872-3171. If you are having a life-threatening emergency please call 9-1-1 or visit your local emergency department.