Dr. Morse can perform a variety of non-surgical treatments to treat hand disorders. When hand surgery is neither appropriate nor desired by a patient, there may be a non-surgical therapy that can help regain function and/or a normal appearance in the hands.
Indications for Non Surgical Hand Treatments
In general, these treatments are intended to address limited hand function or disablement. Some of the common treatable conditions patients present include:
- Dupuytren's contracture
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- De Quervain syndrome
- Tenosynovitis
- Tendinosis
If Dr. Morse recommends treatment for one of these conditions, he will explain the chosen procedure in depth during your consultation and answer any questions you have. Treatment risks, costs and other important details will be discussed, so you have an adequate understanding of the procedure before you choose to proceed.
Treatment of Dupuytren's Contracture
Dupuytren's contracture treatment may involve an injection or a procedure called needling. During a needling procedure, Dr. Morse inserts a needle through the skin to puncture a cord of tissue that is contracting a finger. There's no incision required and it can be performed on several fingers. However, to avoid nerve damage, there are limits to the areas that can be treated with needling. Also, the contracture can recur, in which case the procedure may need to be repeated.
An injection of Collagenase clostridium histolyticum is another option for treatment of Dupuytren's contracture. The injection is administered into the cord that is causing your finger to bend. It actively disrupts the cells of the contracted cord, causing it to rupture during a follow-up procedure.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and De Quervain Syndrome
For people with mild or intermittent symptoms of carpal tunnel, Dr. Morse may recommend a cortisone injection. The doctor administers the injection to relieve the pressure on the median nerve, providing immediate (but temporary) relief.
Treatment for De Quervain Syndrome is similar. The procedure starts with cryotherapy to reduce inflammation and edema. Next, Dr. Morse administers a cortisone injection into the tissues of the tendon sheath.
What to Expect After Treatment
Your post-operative experience will vary depending on the condition, treatment and other circumstances. It's common to experience some redness, swelling, itching and bruising after one of these procedures. Dr. Morse will provide detailed instructions for your post-operative care.
Contact the office of reconstructive surgeon Dr. Martin Morse to learn more about non-surgical therapies for hand disorders.
