Medical review in progress — patient information, not a substitute for a consultation.
Overview
The hand is small but complex: tendons move the fingers, nerves give feeling, and fine skin allows grip. Cuts from glass, knives or machines can divide tendons and nerves; children may be born with joined or extra fingers. Timely repair, followed by hand therapy, gives the best chance of useful function.
What it addresses
- Cut tendons — inability to bend or straighten a finger
- Nerve injuries — numbness after a cut
- Syndactyly (joined fingers) and polydactyly (extra digits)
- Burn contractures of the hand
Who may be a candidate
- Anyone with a deep cut to the hand or wrist — early assessment matters
- Children with congenital hand differences (timing planned with parents)
Treatment options
- 01Flexor and extensor tendon repair
- 02Nerve repair
- 03Syndactyly release with skin grafts
- 04Removal and reconstruction of extra digits
- 05Contracture release
Benefits & limitations
- Restoring movement and sensation improves daily function
- Nerve recovery is slow and may be incomplete
- Results depend greatly on hand therapy after surgery
Every patient is different. Results vary and no outcome can be guaranteed; your surgeon will discuss what is realistic for you.
Consultation & assessment
At Central Hospital, Dhanmondi, Dr. Masum takes a full history, examines the area of concern and — only with your permission — takes clinical photographs for your file. He explains which options suit you, including non-surgical ones where they are appropriate, together with the expected recovery, possible risks and the cost, so that you can decide without pressure.
Please bring previous prescriptions, investigation reports and a list of the medicines you take.
Preparing for surgery
- 1Tell the surgeon about diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease and any allergies.
- 2Mention blood thinners, aspirin or herbal supplements — some may need to be paused only on medical advice.
- 3Stop smoking well before surgery; it slows wound healing.
- 4Follow the fasting and medicine instructions you are given for the day of surgery.
- 5Arrange for a family member to accompany you and help at home for the first days.
The procedure
Under anaesthesia, divided tendons and nerves are found and repaired with fine sutures, often using magnification. For syndactyly, the fingers are separated with zig-zag incisions and skin grafts.
Recovery & aftercare
A splint protects the repair for several weeks while guided exercises begin. Return to heavy work takes longer; follow the therapy plan closely.
Possible risks
- Tendon rupture or stiffness from adhesions
- Incomplete return of feeling
- Bleeding or a collection of blood under the skin (haematoma)
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing or wound breakdown
- Scarring that is more noticeable than expected
- Risks related to anaesthesia
Questions about this treatment
As early as possible — ideally within days of the injury. Delayed repairs are possible but can be more complex.
Related videos
Appointment
Talk to us before you decide.
Call the hotline for a serial at Central Hospital, Dhanmondi — Saturday to Thursday, 3 pm to 6 pm.