Can Hand Surgery Correct Abnormally Wide Bone Structure?

Q: Can Hand Surgery Correct Abnormally Wide Bone Structure?

Dear Ms. <br>Chen： Your issue requires further examination and testing to understand the underlying cause. <br>Only then can we determine whether surgery is appropriate for you. <br>I recommend that you first visit the orthopedic or plastic surgery outpatient clinic at a medical

Hand Surgery

I would like to ask the doctor, my hand bones are not straight like most people; instead, they have developed horizontally, making them much wider—about one and a half times the size of normal bones.
I would like to know if it is possible to have surgery to remove some of the bone to make them look more normal.
Thank you.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/16

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics

Dear Ms.
Chen: Your issue requires further examination and testing to understand the underlying cause.
Only then can we determine whether surgery is appropriate for you.
I recommend that you first visit the orthopedic or plastic surgery outpatient clinic at a medical center (preferably with a physician who specializes in hand surgery) for evaluation.
Wishing you health and safety! Sincerely, Dr.
Chen

Reply Date: 2007/05/16

More Info

When it comes to addressing an abnormally wide bone structure in the hand, surgical intervention may be a viable option, but it requires careful consideration and evaluation by a qualified orthopedic or hand surgeon. The condition you describe, where the bones in your hand appear wider than normal, could be due to various factors, including genetic predisposition, previous injuries, or conditions such as acromegaly or other metabolic disorders that affect bone growth.

Before considering surgery, a thorough assessment is essential. This typically involves a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans to evaluate the bone structure and any underlying issues. The surgeon will assess the extent of the abnormality, the functional implications, and whether the condition is causing pain or limiting your hand's functionality.

If surgery is deemed appropriate, there are several techniques that may be employed, depending on the specific nature of the bone abnormality. One common approach is osteotomy, where the surgeon cuts the bone to realign it and reduce its width. This procedure can help restore a more normal appearance and improve function. However, it is important to note that osteotomy may involve risks such as infection, nerve damage, or complications related to anesthesia.

The size of the incision will depend on the specific surgical technique used and the extent of the correction needed. Generally, hand surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, which can result in smaller incisions and quicker recovery times. However, in cases requiring significant correction, a larger incision may be necessary.

Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for a successful outcome. Physical therapy will likely be recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the hand. The rehabilitation process can take time, and it is important to follow the surgeon's recommendations closely to achieve the best results.

In summary, while surgical correction of an abnormally wide bone structure in the hand is possible, it requires a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist. The decision to proceed with surgery should be based on a thorough understanding of the potential benefits and risks, as well as the specific goals you wish to achieve. Consulting with a hand surgeon who has experience in this area will provide you with the best guidance tailored to your individual situation.

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