Our Summary

This study compared how well patients understood their hand conditions and treatments after talking to a surgeon in two different settings: a surgical mission abroad and a university hand center in the US. The researchers gave surveys to the patients before and after their consultations with the surgeon. The surveys tested their knowledge of hand anatomy, their specific condition, and the risks of surgery. They found that before the consultation, patients in the university group knew more than those in the mission group. After the consultation, both groups knew more, but the improvement was only statistically significant in the mission group. However, although most patients felt they had learned about their condition, many still did not fully understand their diagnosis or remember the risks of surgery. These results suggest that even in challenging settings like surgical missions, consultations with the surgeon can help patients understand more about their condition. However, more work is needed to ensure patients fully understand their diagnosis and the potential risks of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study comparing patient understanding in a university hand center versus a surgical mission abroad?
  2. Did consultations with the surgeon improve patient understanding of their hand conditions and treatments in both settings?
  3. What does the study suggest about patient understanding of their diagnosis and potential risks of surgery, even after consultations?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hand surgery is to ask questions and seek clarification if there is anything they do not understand. It is important for patients to fully understand their condition, the proposed treatment, and the potential risks involved in order to make informed decisions about their care. Patients should feel empowered to ask their surgeon to explain things in a way that they can easily understand, and to seek second opinions if needed. Communication and understanding between the patient and surgeon are crucial for a successful outcome in hand surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hand surgery are those who have conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytren’s contracture, arthritis, tendon injuries, fractures, nerve compression, and other conditions that affect the function and movement of the hand. These conditions can cause pain, numbness, weakness, limited range of motion, and other symptoms that can affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities. Hand surgery may be recommended to improve function, alleviate pain, restore mobility, and prevent further complications.

Timeline

  • Before hand surgery:
  1. Patient experiences pain, discomfort, and limited mobility in their hand.
  2. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss their hand condition and potential treatment options.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
  • After hand surgery:
  1. Patient undergoes hand surgery to address their condition, such as carpal tunnel release or tendon repair.
  2. Patient experiences post-operative pain, swelling, and restricted movement in their hand.
  3. Patient follows a rehabilitation plan to regain strength and function in their hand.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and sees improvement in their hand function over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific hand condition do I have and what are the treatment options available to me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the recommended hand surgery?
  3. What is the expected outcome of the surgery and what is the recovery process like?
  4. Are there any alternative non-surgical treatments that I can consider before opting for surgery?
  5. How many times have you performed this particular hand surgery procedure and what is your success rate?
  6. What post-operative care will be required and how long will it take for me to regain full use of my hand?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to ensure optimal healing and prevent future issues?
  8. Will there be any potential long-term effects or limitations after the surgery?
  9. What is the expected cost of the surgery and will my insurance cover it?
  10. Are there any additional resources or support groups available for patients undergoing hand surgery?

Reference

Authors: Walker ME, Chuang C, Moores CR, Webb ML, Buonocore SD, Grant Thomson J. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2018 Mar;23(1):11-17. doi: 10.1142/S2424835518500017. PMID: 29409417