Our Summary

The study is about why patients visit the emergency department (ED) after having hand or elbow surgery. The researchers analyzed data from two hospitals over a ten-year period and found that out of 3,261 patients who had such surgeries, about 2.7% went to the ED within 30 days of their operation. The main reasons for these visits were pain, swelling, and worries about infection. The study also found that certain factors increased the likelihood of a post-surgery ED visit, such as a history of drug use, having multiple procedures, and low levels of a protein called serum albumin. However, being over 60 years old reduced the likelihood of such a visit. Based on these findings, the researchers suggest that doctors and hospitals can use this information to better predict who might need more follow-up care after surgery and to develop strategies to avoid unnecessary ED visits.

FAQs

  1. What were the main reasons patients visited the emergency department after hand or elbow surgery?
  2. What factors increased the likelihood of a post-surgery emergency department visit?
  3. How can the findings from this study be used by doctors and hospitals to improve post-surgery care?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hand surgery is to closely follow post-operative care instructions, including keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking prescribed medications as directed, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms or concerns, such as increasing pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection, to your healthcare provider promptly. By following these recommendations, you can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications that may require a visit to the emergency department.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hand surgery include those with:

  1. Traumatic injuries to the hand or wrist, such as fractures, dislocations, or lacerations.
  2. Chronic conditions affecting the hand, such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or Dupuytren’s contracture.
  3. Tumors or cysts in the hand or wrist.
  4. Infections in the hand or wrist.
  5. Congenital abnormalities or deformities of the hand or wrist.
  6. Nerve compression or damage in the hand or wrist.
  7. Tendon or ligament injuries in the hand or wrist.

Overall, patients who have persistent pain, limited function, or deformity in the hand or wrist may be recommended for hand surgery to improve their quality of life and restore function.

Timeline

Before hand surgery:

  1. Patient consults with doctor/specialist to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Patient may need to stop certain medications or make lifestyle changes in preparation for surgery.
  4. Patient schedules surgery and makes arrangements for post-operative care and recovery.
  5. Patient undergoes hand surgery under anesthesia, performed by a surgeon.

After hand surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up in recovery room and is monitored for any immediate complications.
  2. Patient is discharged home with post-operative instructions, pain medication, and a follow-up appointment.
  3. Patient experiences pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the hand as they begin the recovery process.
  4. Patient follows prescribed rehabilitation exercises and attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  5. If complications arise, such as persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection, the patient may visit the emergency department for further evaluation and treatment.
  6. Patient continues to progress in their recovery, gradually regaining strength and function in the hand over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the hand surgery I am considering?
  2. How long is the recovery time for this type of surgery, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the potential side effects or risks?
  5. How many of these surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. What are the alternative treatment options to surgery, and what are the potential outcomes of those alternatives?
  7. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my chances of a successful recovery?
  8. What follow-up appointments will I need after the surgery, and what signs or symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a complication?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to promote healing and prevent further injury?
  10. How can I best communicate with you or your office if I have any concerns or questions before or after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Benage TC, Del Core MA, Bass AJ, Ahn J, Pientka WF 2nd, Golden AS. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2022 Feb;27(1):76-82. doi: 10.1142/S2424835522500047. Epub 2022 Jan 14. PMID: 35037576