Hand, wrist, & elbow surgery
Hand, wrist, or elbow surgeries are often delicate procedures used to relieve pain and restore function of these complicated structures. If you are experiencing a hand, wrist, or elbow condition that is not improving with medication, physical therapy, or other treatments, surgery may help you get back to a normal, active life.
At Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican's San Martin and Siena hospitals, orthopedic surgeons specialize in hand, wrist, and elbow surgery in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV. Learn more about our orthopedic surgeons who specialize in hand, wrist, and elbow surgery by using our online Find a Doctor tool or calling (702) 616-4900.
Why hand, wrist, & elbow surgery is performed
Fractures, repetitive motion injuries, and dislocations are three reasons why you may need surgery on these parts of your body.
The primary goals of any surgery on the hand, wrist, or elbow are to treat any injury, relieve pain and restore functionality. Since not every injury or condition requires surgery, it may only be recommended if your condition has not improved with noninvasive therapies such as medications, rest, and physical rehabilitation. Some upper limb surgeries, such as carpal tunnel surgery, are minimally invasive. However, extensive traumatic injuries may require a long, open procedure to repair the damage. You may receive general anesthesia, a regional nerve block, or light sedation depending on the type of procedure.
In general, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery to treat:
- Traumatic fracture or extensive tissue disruption (such as torn ligaments or partial amputations) in your hand or arm
- Chronic conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or osteoarthritis, that have not responded well to less-aggressive treatments
- Tumors
- Severe infection
- Cysts that affect limb function
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments within the joint space
Recovery after hand, wrist, or elbow surgery
Depending on the procedure, you may need to wear a cast or brace after surgery, and have physical therapy to improve your strength and function.
Surgical repair of a traumatic injury or a chronic disabling condition, such as carpal tunnel, can ease your pain and return full functionality of your hand and arm.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican's San Martin and Siena Campuses offer hand, wrist, and elbow surgery from our experienced hand surgeons in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.
