Hand and wrist surgery
Surgeries/Orthopedic/Hand and wrist

Hand and wrist surgery

Surgical treatment of conditions of the hand and wrist: carpal tunnel, trigger finger, cysts, fractures and tendon injuries.

What is it?

Hand and wrist surgery manages a wide range of conditions: carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytren's disease, ganglion cysts, osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb, fractures and injuries to tendons or nerves. As the hand is an organ of precision, these procedures require meticulous technique and dedicated equipment. Most of these procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, under regional anesthesia: only the arm is numbed, allowing the patient to return home the same day. The procedures are short, cause little pain and are followed by a rapid return to independence. Recovery is facilitated by early mobilization protocols and, when necessary, by specialized hand rehabilitation sessions. Simple post-operative instructions (elevation, gentle mobilization of the fingers) contribute to a comfortable recovery. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, hand surgery is performed by experienced surgeons within a smooth outpatient pathway, from consultation to post-operative follow-up, with particular attention paid to comfort and a rapid return to activities.
Hand and wrist surgery

When is it indicated?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (tingling and pain in the hand)

A compressed nerve at the wrist causes tingling in the fingers, often at night. A short procedure frees the nerve and makes these unpleasant sensations disappear.

Trigger finger (painful locking of a finger)

A tendon that glides poorly makes the finger snap or lock when bent. A simple procedure frees the passage of the tendon and restores fluid movement.

Dupuytren's disease (retraction of the fingers)

A membrane in the palm thickens and progressively pulls the fingers toward the hand, preventing them from straightening. Surgery releases this retraction to regain an open hand.

Ganglion cyst of the wrist

This small benign lump filled with fluid often appears on the back of the wrist. It is removed when it becomes painful or bothersome.

Osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb

Wear of the joint at the base of the thumb makes pinching movements painful, such as turning a key or opening a jar. Surgery relieves the pain and preserves the use of the thumb.

Fractures and tendon or nerve injuries of the hand

The hand is an organ of precision: its fractures and its tendon or nerve wounds are repaired meticulously to best preserve the mobility and sensation of the fingers.

Preparation

1Consultation with the surgeon and additional tests if needed (electromyogram, X-rays, ultrasound)
2Pre-operative anesthesia consultation
3Remove rings and jewelry from the side to be operated on
4Fast for 6 hours before the operation if the anesthesia requires it
5Arrange for someone to accompany you home

Procedure

1

Regional anesthesia of the upper limb in the majority of cases

2

Comfortable positioning, arm on a table dedicated to hand surgery

3

Precise surgical procedure, often through a short incision

4

Closure with fine stitches and an appropriate dressing

5

Instructions to mobilize the fingers from the day of the operation

6

Return home the same day in most cases

Duration

15 to 45 minutes depending on the procedure

Aftercare & Recovery

Recovery is generally straightforward: the pain and tingling caused by nerve compression fade quickly, and use of the hand for light tasks resumes within a few days. Full recovery of strength is achieved progressively over a few weeks.

Risks and side effects

Scar sensitivity for a few weeks
Temporary stiffness of the fingers, prevented by early mobilization
Infection or hematoma, rare and generally harmless

These risks remain rare. Your surgeon will inform you in detail before the procedure.

Request a Quote

Contact us to schedule a consultation or receive a personalized quote.

Request a Quote +216 36 402 000

At a glance

Duration: 15 to 45 minutes depending on the procedure
Preparation: Required
Dedicated specialist team