De Quervain's tendon release is surgery to decrease pressure on a tendon that runs along the side of the wrist near the thumb. Tendons are flexible, ropelike fibers that connect muscle to bone. In de Quervain's (say "duh-kair-VANZ") tendinitis, the tendon becomes swollen. This causes the tendon to rub painfully against the tissue that covers it.
This surgery will probably be done while you are awake. The doctor will give you a shot (injection) to numb your hand and prevent pain. You also may get medicine to help you relax.
The doctor will make a cut (incision) in the skin on the side of your wrist near the base of your thumb. The doctor will make a cut to open the tight band over the swollen part of the tendon. This will allow the tendon to move freely without pain. The doctor will close the skin incision with stitches. You will have a scar on the side of your wrist that will fade with time.
You will go home on the same day as the surgery. How soon you can return to work depends on your job. If you can do your job without using your hand, you may be able to go back to work in a few days. But if your job requires you to do repeated hand or wrist movements, put pressure on your hand, or lift things, you will need more time. Ask your doctor when you can go back to work.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Surgery can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for surgery.
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