Anaesthetic

 

Below we provide a summary of the most frequent injuries to the hand and wrist. Not all procedures or diseases can be included here. For further information please contact our service by telephone or e-mail. Many procedures are performed under magnification. This is why you may see your surgeon wearing surgical magnifying GLASSES or using a MICROSCOPE. These instruments are necessary for the surgeon to examine and work more effectively on the anatomy in more detail. A great many procedures can be performed under local (loco-regional) anaesthetic. This consists of anaesthetic administered specifically at the incision (LOCAL anaesthetic) but it may also be administered further up, a so-called PLEXUS anaesthetic. An anaesthetic injection is administered around the collarbone or in the armpit. Advantages include the long-lasting effect (six to twelve hours) and a shorter hospitalisation period. Of course, a GENERAL anaesthetic could be considered, on account of the patient’s request or that of the surgeon. You will receive more information when your procedure is being planned. PLEASE NOTE: you also need to arrive nil-by-mouth for a plexus anaesthetic and will be asked to compile the pre-operative file along with your GP in advance.

This content was written by : Dr. Arne Decramer, Dr. Stijn Muermans, Dr. Jan Noyez, Dr. Karel Willems