How long does it take to recover from metacarpal surgery?

How long does it take to recover from metacarpal surgery?

Metacarpal fractures usually take about six to eight weeks to heal. You’ll probably have to wear a splint as part of your treatment. It covers part of your fingers and both sides of your hand and wrist, and you’ll most likely wear it for around three weeks. You may also undergo physical therapy.

Do metacarpal fractures require surgery?

A metacarpal fracture may require surgery. If your surgeon makes the assessment that the fracture will NOT give you good hand function without surgery, surgical treatment will be recommended.

When do metacarpal fractures need surgery?

Indications for surgery of metacarpal shaft fractures include greater than 10° of angulation in the index or middle finger metacarpal, or greater than 30°–40° of angulation in the ring or small finger. In addition, open and multiple metacarpal fractures are often best treated surgically.

Is a metacarpal fracture painful?

Like most other fractures, a metacarpal fracture typically produces pain and swelling in the affected hand. Bruising also usually occurs, although it may not be visible immediately and may take several days to develop.

Do you get put to sleep for hand surgery?

General anesthesia is also utilized for many hand surgical procedures. Contemporary techniques are used to safely put the patient “to sleep,” often on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia requires an anesthesiologist and monitoring, and must be performed in a surgery center or hospital setting.

How long does freezing last after hand surgery?

If you had a local or regional block anesthetic, your arm or hand may be numb for several hours or even overnight. As the numbness wears off, you may have a tingling or burning sensation which will eventually disappear. If the numbness persists after 24 hours, call your doctor.

How can I tell if my metacarpal is fractured?

People with a metacarpal fracture will report a specific incident where they injured their hand by punching something hard, or twisting their hand with great force. Examining the hand will show significant pain and swelling, usually over the knuckle.

How long will a metacarpal fracture take to heal?

Metacarpal fractures usually take about six to eight weeks to heal. You’ll probably have to wear a splint as part of your treatment. It covers part of your fingers and both sides of your hand and wrist, and you’ll most likely wear it for around three weeks. You may also undergo physical therapy. In some cases, metacarpal fractures require surgery.

What is the prognosis of metacarpal fractures?

Prognosis of the Fracture Most patients with a metacarpal fracture do not even require a cast for the injury to heal. Most patients make a full recovery in a relatively short period of time. Every patient’s prognosis is still handled on a case by case basis.

What do you need to know about metacarpal fracture?

Metacarpal fractures are generally described by the location of the fracture. Fractures in the center of the bone are called metacarpal shaft fractures. Fractures by the base of the finger at the knuckle are called metacarpal head fractures. Lastly, fractures at the wrist-end of the bone are called fractures of the base of the metacarpal. Nov 14 2019