Post-operative advice following hand surgery

Hand and Plastic Day Surgery Unit

Post-operative advice

• Keep your dressing (and splint or cast if applicable) clean and dry at all times
• When washing or having a bath/shower, cover any dressings with two plastic bags
• Do not remove or change your dressing unless instructed to do so by the nurse or surgeon
• Feeling and control of your hand/arm may take up to
• Six hours to return, depending on the type of anaesthetic used
• Elevate your hand above heart/chest level for the first 48 hours and as much as possible for the next week. This reduces swelling and decreases discomfort. Use pillows, blankets or a sling to elevate
• Check your fingertips regularly during first 24 hours for normal pink colour, warmth and sensation
• Do not drive or operate machinery or tools until your casts or splint have been removed (some insurance policies will not cover accidents when splints or casts are in place – always check with your insurance company)
• Smoking affects circulation to the hand and fingers and may result in complications. It is therefore advisable to avoid smoking or smoky atmospheres

• Swelling/tight dressing
• Active/excessive bleeding
• Pain not relieved by medication
• Numbness, tingling, cold, white or blue fingers