Name of the Procedure:

Suture of 1 Nerve; Hand or Foot, Common Sensory Nerve

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical repair of a damaged common sensory nerve in the hand or foot. It aims to restore sensation and function by carefully suturing the nerve ends together.

Purpose

The procedure is performed to address nerve damage that impacts sensory function, potentially due to injury or surgical trauma. The goal is to restore feeling and improve the overall function of the affected area, enhancing quality of life.

Indications

• Severe cut or laceration involving a common sensory nerve
• Loss of sensation or function in the hand or foot
• Traumatic nerve injuries
• Surgical nerve damage requiring repair

Preparation

• Patients might need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to current medications, especially blood thinners.
• Preoperative diagnostic tests, such as nerve conduction studies or imaging scans, to ascertain the extent of nerve damage.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives local anesthesia to numb the area, although general anesthesia may be used in some cases.
2. The surgeon makes an incision to access the damaged nerve.
3. Using fine surgical instruments and magnification, the surgeon aligns and sutures the severed ends of the nerve.
4. The incision is closed with sutures and the area is bandaged.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the nerve damage.

Setting

This surgery is performed in a hospital or specialized outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeons specializing in hand or foot surgery
• Anesthesiologists
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Scar tissue formation
• Incomplete restoration of nerve function
• Pain or discomfort during recovery
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Possible restoration of sensation in the affected area
• Improvement in the function of the hand or foot
• Reduction in pain associated with nerve damage
• Enhanced quality of life

Recovery

• Patients may need to keep the hand or foot elevated and avoid strenuous activities.
• Pain management may include prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy might be recommended to restore function.
• Return to normal activities is typically advised after 4 to 6 weeks, depending on individual recovery.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and nerve function.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management including physical therapy, pain medications, or nerve blocks
• Alternative surgical procedures such as nerve grafts or neurolysis

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might be under local or general anesthesia, so they won't feel pain. Post-procedure, patients may experience mild to moderate pain, swelling, and temporary limitations in the use of the hand or foot. Pain management strategies and physical therapy can aid in a smoother recovery process.