Recovery from soft tissue reconstruction surgery

Posted on 09/29/2020

Soft tissue injuries to the hands are fairly common and are often the result of the hands or fingers being stretched beyond their usual capabilities, or from suffering a direct trauma. This could be a blunt force trauma, such as a blow to the finger that occurs during sport, or a sharp injury like a deep laceration. Some soft tissue injuries are fairly minor and will repair themselves with time and patience, but there are others that are much more severe and that require professional intervention. In these instances, you may be recommended to undergo soft tissue reconstruction surgery.
 

What is soft tissue reconstruction surgery?

Soft tissue reconstruction may be recommended if you have been involved in an accident or had a health problem that has affected the soft tissues found inside your hands. This includes the muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and even the skin. Exactly what will be involved in your surgery will vary depending on the extent of the damage that has been sustained and exactly where in your hand has been affected. However, all patients will need to allow themselves time to recover and be fully rehabilitated following their surgery, regardless of how extensive their soft tissue injury or repair is.
 

Recovery following soft-tissue reconstruction surgery

Surgery may be able to repair the damage that has been sustained, but for the surgery to be successful, it’s crucial that patients take sufficient time to heal and recover. Everyone recovers from injuries at very different rates, and the amount of time it will take you to recover from your surgery may vary depending on what was involved.
 

Immediately following your surgery, you are likely to experience some swelling and inflammation at the site of the procedure. You will also probably feel some pain. These are perfectly normal, and your surgical team will give you some medication to help you to feel more comfortable. You may not feel like moving your hand much, but after 72 hours your surgeon will probably recommend that you start to try and use your hand and fingers again, both in everyday activities such as dressing and eating and by performing some rehabilitative exercises.
 

Rehabilitation is an important part of recovering from any orthopedic procedure. The process involves patients attending a series of appointments with a rehabilitation specialist. The aim of these is to restore the full function, flexibility and strength of your hand and fingers. Exercises will be carried out during these appointments and you will be expected to complete more at home as directed by your specialist. You may experience more discomfort when you start the exercises and again this is normal. You shouldn’t stop unless the pain is still significant two hours after the exercises are complete. In this instance, speak to your rehabilitation specialist or hand surgeon.
 

If your job involves you using your hand and fingers regularly, you must ensure that you practice similar tasks so that you can gradually build your strength and functionality. Your surgeon will give you specific advice on when you will be able to return to your usual activities and this should be followed exactly as directed. The same protocol applies to sport and you should adhere to the guidance given to you by your surgical team.

If you are looking for a hand surgeon in Oakland, are experiencing hand and wrist problems, or if you would like more information about recovering after a soft tissue injury or reconstruction surgery, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert surgical team.