Frequently asked questions after minor surgery

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AFTER MINOR SURGERY

(Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Trigger Finger, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis …)

Dr. Do Vu Anh

Minor surgical techniques for treating carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger using small incisions combined with biological tissue adhesive application, along with the integration of rehabilitation, are modern methods that help minimize pain, shorten hospital stays, and deliver positive outcomes for patients. However, post-surgery, many patients still have concerns regarding care, movement, and recovery. Below are frequently answered questions along with explanations from the doctor.

1. Can I use water after the surgery?

Yes, but do not overuse it. The layer of biological tissue adhesive helps protect the incision, preventing water and dirt from entering, so patients can perform light personal activities after surgery. However, you should not soak your hand in water or let the incision come into contact with water for too long, especially hot water, as it may cause the adhesive to peel off prematurely and affect the wound healing process. You should dry the surgical area immediately after contact with water.

2. Is it a problem if the adhesive peels off prematurely?

After the minor surgery, the doctor has sutured you with absorbable sutures, so even if the adhesive layer peels off early before the wound is completely healed, the sutures will still prevent the wound from opening. In this case, there are 2 solutions:

• If living nearby, the patient can visit the clinic to have a new layer of adhesive applied.
• Or if living far away, you can use sterile bandages for the wound until it heals.

3. When can I return to normal work or ride a motorcycle?

After the minor surgery, you can perform daily activities and light work. For jobs requiring heavy labor, heavy lifting, or riding a motorcycle, you must wait until the wound is completely healed and it depends on the degree of pain at the scar site. This period usually lasts about 2–4 weeks, but may vary depending on the individual and the nature of the work. Patients should follow the doctor's instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.

4. Is it normal for the scar to remain firm and swollen after surgery?

Yes, it is normal. Patients will be instructed on local massage and rehabilitation exercises, and the scar will gradually soften over time.

5. Will my hand be weak after the surgery?

Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome does not weaken the hand. However, patients may experience pain and tightness due to some inflammatory responses in the early post-operative stage. Performing rehabilitation exercises according to the doctor's instructions will help improve range of motion, restore tendon strength, and return the hand to its normal state sooner.

6. I noticed that after the adhesive peeled off, there are still white thread ends looking like grains of rice, is that okay?

It is fine; those are absorbable sutures that have not yet dissolved completely. Usually, the absorption time takes 1 to 2 weeks, and the sutures will gradually dissolve and disappear on their own.

7. Is the rehabilitation app free of charge?

The app is completely free for Dr. Vu Anh's post-operative patients. However, the app is still in the refinement stage, so patients should note to only click on the "Exercise Program" designated by the doctor and DO NOT click on any sections requiring payment (Exercise Library).

8. Do I need a follow-up examination?

Dr. Vu Anh's method aims to minimize inconvenience for patients and a follow-up visit is not strictly necessary unless there are abnormal issues.

Above are the frequently asked questions after surgery to help patients feel more at ease. If any abnormalities occur, you can contact us via the software, customer service department, or come for a direct examination.

Wishing all patients a speedy recovery!