Hand surgery is a specialised field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. It involves both surgical and non-surgical techniques to address a wide range of hand-related problems, including injuries, deformities, and diseases.

Here are some common reasons why someone might need hand surgery:

1. Hand injuries: Hand surgery is often necessary to repair fractures, dislocations, tendon injuries, nerve injuries, and other trauma-related conditions. This can include repairing broken bones, reattaching tendons or nerves, and addressing soft tissue damage.

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. Hand surgery can involve releasing the pressure on the nerve by cutting the carpal ligament to relieve symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling.

3. Trigger finger: This condition causes one or more fingers to become stuck in a bent position. Hand surgery may involve releasing the tendon sheath to allow the finger to move freely again.

4. Dupuytren’s contracture: It is a condition where the tissue beneath the skin of the palm and fingers thickens and tightens, causing the fingers to curl inward. Hand surgery can involve removing or dividing the affected tissue to restore hand function.

5. Rheumatoid arthritis: In severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis, hand surgery may be necessary to relieve pain, correct deformities, and restore function. Procedures can include joint replacements, tendon repairs, or synovectomy (the removal of an inflamed joint lining).

6. Congenital hand deformities: Hand surgery can be performed to correct congenital abnormalities such as syndactyly (fused fingers), polydactyly (extra fingers), or other developmental issues.

7. Tumours and cysts: Hand surgery may be required to remove benign or malignant tumours, ganglion cysts, or other growths in the hand or wrist area.

8. Reconstruction after trauma or disease: Hand surgery can help restore hand function and appearance after significant injuries, burns, or diseases that affect the hand’s structure and function.

It’s important to note that the specific surgical techniques and procedures involved in hand surgery can vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon’s approach. If you have a specific concern about your hand or are considering hand surgery, it’s best to consult with a qualified hand surgeon who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.