The goal of this page is not to scare you. It is to inform you. No surgery is without risk. In orthopedic surgery the purpose is to restore function by recreating/changing anatomy. While this often occurs, healing in the wrong position and complications can occur and may require additional procedures. Complications can lead to progressive problems with presentient or possibly worse symptoms. Implants are also not perfect and can fail. The following are GENERAL and not inclusive complications that can occur following surgery.

Swelling -Swelling following the operation is common and is to be expected. It occurs due to your bodies response to the injury, operation, and immobilization. Keeping the arm elevated and moving fingers (*if allowed*) will help reduce swelling. Swelling with redness should be evaluated by Dr. Chambers as this may be a sign of infection. 

Bleeding/Bruising -Bruising is common after operations and is to be expected. Often bleeding follows gravity and may tract to the fingers. There may be some minor seepage from wounds following the surgery and should settle over time. Concerning continued bleeding should contact Dr. Chambers office. 

Infection -Superficial infections can occur and often are a reaction to the stitches. These are often treated with oral antibiotics and regular dressings changes. Deep infections around the tendons and bones are rare and may need admission to hospital for

intravenous antibiotics and further surgery. Deep infections may cause longer-term complications. If you suspect you are developing an infection let Dr. Chambers know as soon as possible and he will evaluated to see if antibiotics are needed. 

 

Skin Issues– Every operation leaves scars and often the skin around the scar is numb permanently. Sometimes the wound splits open and may take longer to heal.  

Stiffness-Stiffness is the enemy of every hand surgeon and is a side effect of surgery. It may be due to swelling, scar tissue or immobility and will be made worse by infection or other complications. Often there is a need for post operative therapy after hand surgery and some procedures require extensive therapy. 

Damage (Artery, Nerve, Bone,Tendon)– Anything in the surgical field could be inadvertently

damaged during the operation and may have permanent change in the function of you arm. 

 

Pain/Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) – CRPS is chronic pain syndrome that is not fully understood and therefore surgeons cannot predict or prevent who will be affected. It results in pain, stiffness and swelling, out of proportion to the surgery and is very unpleasant. Mild cases will have good resolution; severe

cases are very rare, but may leave the limb permanently stiff and swollen. Cold intolerance can also occur after surgery.