Preparing for Hand Surgery

Preparation differs according to the procedure, anaesthetic and your general health. Your own surgical and anaesthetic team’s instructions always take priority over general advice.

Tell your team about

• All prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and supplements you take.
• Blood thinners, diabetes medication and medicines that affect immunity.
• Medication, latex or adhesive allergies.
• Previous problems with anaesthesia.
• Heart, lung, kidney or other important medical conditions.
• Any fever, infection, wound or new illness before the operation.

Medicines and fasting

Do not stop prescription medicines on your own. Your team will tell you which medicines to continue or pause. Fasting requirements depend on the anaesthetic; follow the exact instructions provided by your hospital or anaesthetist.

Practical preparation

• Remove rings and jewellery from the hand to be operated on well before surgery.
• Arrange transport home if you are having sedation, regional anaesthesia or general anaesthesia.
• Plan help at home if the operated hand will be restricted.
• Wear loose clothing with sleeves that can pass easily over a dressing or splint.
• If you smoke, stopping before surgery can improve wound and bone healing.

Anaesthetic options

Hand surgery may be performed under local anaesthesia, regional block, sedation, general anaesthesia, or a combination. The choice depends on the operation, your health and local practice.

Questions worth asking

• What is the goal of the operation and what are the alternatives?
• What are the important risks for me?
• Will I need a splint, cast or hand therapy?
• When can I drive, work, exercise and use the hand normally?
• Who should I contact if I am worried after discharge?