Hand Surgeries
Restoring Function and Mobility with Upper Extremity Procedures
Millions of people worldwide experience problems with their upper extremities that impact their daily activities. From wrist pain due to repetitive motion to traumatic injuries affecting fingers, these issues can significantly diminish the quality of life. At the European Institute of Plastic Surgery (EIPS), our specialists provide comprehensive care for upper extremity conditions through advanced surgical interventions.
What Are Hand Surgery Procedures?
Upper extremity procedures encompass a range of surgical interventions designed to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve the appearance of hands, fingers, and wrists. These operations address conditions resulting from trauma, degenerative diseases, congenital disorders, or repetitive stress injuries that affect the intricate network of bones, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels.
The complexity of upper extremity anatomy requires specialised knowledge and precision. Our surgical team uses microsurgical techniques to operate on delicate structures measuring millimetres in diameter. This meticulous approach allows us to achieve optimal outcomes, helping patients regain mobility and dexterity.
Common Conditions Requiring Surgical Treatment
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure builds on the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. Patients typically experience numbness, tingling, and weakness in their fingers and palms. Surgical release decompresses the nerve by cutting the ligament and pressing upon it, alleviating symptoms and preventing further damage.
Cubital tunnel release
This surgery is done to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of your elbow. If the nerve is pinched or irritated, it can cause numbness or tingling in your hand. The surgery involves opening up the tunnel around the nerve to give it more space, reducing the discomfort.
Guyon’s Canal Release
This surgery is done to free up the ulnar nerve that gets compressed in the wrist area, called Guyon’s canal. When the nerve is pressed on, it can cause pain or weakness in the hand. The procedure involves cutting any tissue or structures that are squeezing the nerve, which helps to improve hand function.
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
This surgery helps treat a condition where the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist become swollen and painful, known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. In the surgery, a small cut is made to release the tight tissue around the tendons, which helps reduce pain and allows the tendons to move freely again.
Ganglion
Ganglions are small, fluid-filled lumps that form near joints or tendons, often on the wrist or hand. This surgery removes the ganglion cyst and the surrounding tissue, helping to relieve pain or discomfort and prevent it from coming back.
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Ganglions are small, fluid-filled lumps that form near joints or tendons, often on the wrist or hand. This surgery removes the ganglion cyst and the surrounding tissue, helping to relieve pain or discomfort and prevent it from coming back.
Tendon Injuries
Flexor and extensor tendons control finger movements. These vital structures require prompt repair when severed or ruptured due to trauma. Surgical intervention reconnects damaged tendons using specialised suturing techniques, often followed by rehabilitation therapy to ensure optimal recovery of motion and strength.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger manifests as catching or locking when attempting to straighten a digit. Inflammation surrounding the tendon restricts smooth movement. A simple surgical procedure releases the constricted area, eliminating painful symptoms and restoring normal finger function.
Arthritic Joint Reconstruction
Arthritis causes joint deterioration, pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Depending on the severity, surgical options range from joint fusion or replacement/reconstruction. These interventions aim to reduce discomfort while maximising functional capability.
Hand and Wrist Fractures
Fractured fingers and wrists frequently require surgical fixation using plates, screws, or pins. This approach ensures proper alignment during healing, reducing the risk of complications such as malunion or persistent instability. Precise reconstruction of joint surfaces helps prevent post-traumatic arthritis development
Excision of lesions in upper extremity including vascular malformations
This surgery is performed to remove abnormal tissue in the hand that is causing problems. Vascular malformations are lumps or swellings caused by blood vessels growing in the wrong way. These can lead to pain, swelling, or other issues with movement. During the surgery, the surgeon carefully removes the malformation to improve function, reduce pain, and prevent further complications.
Reconstructive Procedures for Traumatic Hand Injuries
Injuries to the hand and wrist can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform even the simplest daily tasks. Whether caused by accidents, sports injuries, or falls, trauma to the hand often involves a combination of bone fractures, ligament tears, tendon lacerations, and soft tissue damage. At the EIPS we specialise in the surgical repair and reconstruction of injured hands, helping patients regain function, dexterity, and strength.
Each traumatic injury presents a unique challenge. A displaced fracture might require internal fixation using small plates or screws, while a torn tendon or damaged nerve may need delicate microsurgical repair. Complex cases, such as crush injuries or open wounds, often demand a multi-layered approach—addressing the skeletal framework, restoring circulation, and reconstructing soft tissue. Our board-certified surgeons combine expert knowledge with meticulous technique to ensure optimal outcomes, both functionally and aesthetically.
Beyond the surgical intervention, the recovery process is vital to long-term success. Our team provides tailored rehabilitation plans, including physiotherapy, splinting, and occupational therapy when necessary. We work closely with each patient to track their progress and adjust care as needed, ensuring that mobility, grip strength, and fine motor control are restored as fully as possible.
Timely treatment is essential when dealing with trauma to the hand. Left unaddressed, such injuries can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, or permanent dysfunction. By choosing EIPS, patients receive attentive, advanced care designed to return the hand to its natural state, both in form and function.
Innovative Techniques for Upper Extremity Restoration
- Microsurgery
Using specialised equipment and magnification, microsurgery enables the repair of minuscule structures, including nerves and blood vessels. This technique proves essential for replantation (reattaching amputated digits) and complex reconstructive procedures requiring intricate tissue reconnection.
- Wide-Awake Local Anaesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT)
Duration
Up to 2 Hours
Anaesthesia Used
Local or Regional Anaesthesia
Hospital Stay
No
Pre Admission Tests
Not Required
Downtime
2-6 weeks
Driving
As Adviced
Exercise
As Adviced
Final Result
Immediate Results
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Postoperative care plays a crucial role in surgical success. Most patients require a period of immobilisation followed by graduated rehabilitation. Through customised exercise programmes, physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and coordination. Splinting or bracing might be recommended to protect healing tissues while allowing controlled movement.
Recovery timelines vary based on procedure complexity and individual factors. Simple operations may enable a return to normal activities within weeks, while complex reconstructions might require months of rehabilitation. Our team provides comprehensive guidance throughout this process, ensuring patients achieve maximal functional improvement.
What our patients say!
Why Choose EIPS?
The European Institute of Plastic Surgery offers exceptional care for patients requiring upper extremity surgical interventions. Our board-certified surgeons possess extensive training in plastic and reconstructive techniques, enabling them to address functional and aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
Dr. Demetris Stavrou leads our surgical team with expertise gained through training at prestigious medical institutions across Greece, London, Melbourne, and Israel. His meticulous attention to detail and artistic approach ensures optimal outcomes for complex cases involving the hand and wrist.
Our facilities feature state-of-the-art equipment in safe, sterile environments designed for patient comfort. From initial consultation through postoperative care, our compassionate staff remains dedicated to providing personalised attention and support.
Meet Dr. Theodora Papavasiliou
Dr. Papavasiliou is a highly trained plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon with extensive experience in complex hand surgery, microsurgery, and surgical education.
- MD, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School
- Specialist Title in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, UK
- Hand Surgery Fellowship, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London
- Clinical Education Lead in Plastic Surgery, Oxford University Medical School
- Examiner for OSCE, King’s College London, School of Medicine
- Co-founder and CEO of Stelth Instruments, Cyprus
- Certified in Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), St. Mary’s Hospital, London
- Certified in Emergency Management of Severe Burns (EMSB), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
- Microsurgical Skills and K-Wire Fixation Courses – John Radcliffe and St. Thomas’ Hospitals
- Awarded the Cutler’s Surgical Prize for Innovation in Surgical Instrumentation, Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Published Author with Over 20 Peer-Reviewed Scientific Publications in Plastic and Hand Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery take after upper extremity procedures?
Recovery varies depending on the specific procedure and individual healing factors. Minor operations might require just 1-2 weeks of limited activity, while complex reconstructions could necessitate several months of rehabilitation. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance regarding your expected recovery timeline.
Will I need physical therapy after my procedure?
Most upper extremity procedures benefit from structured rehabilitation. Physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and function while minimising complications such as stiffness or adhesions. Our team coordinates with experienced therapists to develop customised rehabilitation programmes for optimal outcomes.
Are upper extremity procedures painful?
During surgery, anaesthesia ensures you experience no discomfort. Postoperative pain varies by procedure but typically remains manageable with prescribed medications. Many patients report that pain diminishes significantly within days of surgery, transitioning to mild discomfort that gradually resolves.
When can I return to work after upper extremity surgery?
Return-to-work timing depends on your specific procedure and occupation. Office workers might resume duties within 1-2 weeks with modifications, while jobs requiring physical labour may necessitate 6-12 weeks of recovery. Your surgeon will advise on appropriate work restrictions based on your situation.
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