Post-Operative Orders

Instructions for Carpal Tunnel Release, Ligament Reconstruction-Tendon Interposition and Hand Surgery.

• Depending on the type of hand surgery you have had, you can expect:
  • A cast – plaster or fiberglass
  • A splint (plaster underneath with ace wrap)
  • A soft dressing
• Until your first post-op visit, you should leave the dressing/cast on. DO NOT REMOVE
• Keep dressing/cast clean and dry. DO NOT GET WET.
• You may, and should, elevate your hand on pillows above your heart.
• Exercise your hand while in the cast/dressing. (ex: making a fist or moving your fingers).
• You may use ice on your hand: 20 minutes on / 20  minutes off. NO NOT apply ice directly to your skin. If placing ice on the splint or cast itself, first cover with a dry cloth.
• Take pain medication as directed by your physician
• Call the office if you have a temperature above 101.0, drainage, unusual redness or if you experience persistent pain with numbness and/or skin color change unrelieved with ice and elevation.
• Call the office within 2 days after your surgery to schedule a post-op visit with your physician.