Name of the Procedure:

Release of thenar muscle(s) (e.g., thumb contracture), also known as thenar muscle release or thumb contracture release.

Summary:

The release of the thenar muscles involves surgically freeing the muscles at the base of the thumb to treat conditions like thumb contracture. This procedure helps restore normal thumb movement and alleviate pain.

Purpose:

This surgery addresses thumb contracture, where the thumb is stuck in a bent position due to tight thenar muscles. The goal is to improve thumb mobility, reduce pain, and enable better hand function.

Indications:

• Persistent thumb pain and stiffness.
• Difficulty in fully extending or using the thumb.
• Conditions such as Dupuytren's contracture affecting the thumb.
• Ineffectiveness of non-surgical treatments like physical therapy.

Preparation:

• Follow specific fasting instructions before surgery.
• Discontinue certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Complete diagnostic tests such as blood work and X-rays.
• Discuss allergies and medical history with the healthcare team.

Procedure Description:

1. The patient is administered regional anesthesia (or general anesthesia in some cases).
2. A small incision is made at the base of the thumb.
3. The surgeon carefully releases the tightened thenar muscles and any surrounding structures causing the contracture.
4. The incision is closed with sutures and dressed.

Tools: Surgical scalpel, retractors, and suturing materials.

Duration:

The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting:

The surgery is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel:

• Orthopedic or hand surgeon.
• Surgical nurse.
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.

Risks and Complications:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding or hematoma.
• Scarring.
• Injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
• Temporary or permanent numbness.
• Difficulty in achieving the desired thumb range of motion.

Benefits:

• Improved thumb mobility.
• Alleviation of pain and discomfort.
• Enhanced hand function and ability to perform daily tasks.
• Typically, benefits are noticed within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery:

• Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
• Follow wound care instructions provided by healthcare staff.
• Attend all follow-up appointments.
• Engage in physical therapy if recommended.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous thumb activities for a few weeks.

Alternatives:

• Physical therapy and stretching exercises.
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Orthotic devices to help manage symptoms.
• Medication for pain relief.

Pros and cons should be discussed with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Patient Experience:

• Mild to moderate pain is expected post-surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
• Swelling and bruising around the surgical site.
• Temporary limitations in thumb use.
• Comfort measures such as ice packs and elevation of the hand might be recommended.