Re: What's surgery like?

In Reply to: What's surgery like? posted by Brenda on October 30, 2003 at 00:15:51:

: Me again! Can someone share what their surgery was like? Every detail would be much appreciated! My hand surgeon is planning on endoscopic surgery on both my wrist and thumb.

: Thanks :-D

Brenda my advice is open hand surgery. I had the endo first and the surgeon cut my nerve( I used to be afraid to make this confession but I want to be truthful). Open hand release is where your doctor can see where the nerve is trapped. Then release it. Open hand was easier for me to get over because after the endo, my hand swelled like a blown up balloon for 4 to 5 weeks. Prepare yourself before the surgery for dressing, cooking, hygiene and errands. The surgery is not that bad. I was put out both times and the worst pain I felt at first was in waking up. But they are standing right there with a syringe or pill to ease your pain. You just have to follow the surgeons instructions. Keep the arm elevated and iced down. Physical Therapy is wonderful but some doctors don't require it. The rest is up to you. Postitive thinking in healing. The surgery isn't all that bad if everything is followed on the instruction sheets. Good luck... Melani