What is a standard patient experience post-operatively?
Patients have universally accepted the in-office approach. The concern I have for controlling their costs resonates with them. The typical patient leaves the office comfortable and as such does not always appreciate that they just had an operation. This can be good and bad. They are started on immediate unrestricted motion in an ace wrap. The wrap is removed at 48 hours. The hand is then used without restriction. The small scab in the palm heals over 5-7 days. All patients experience palmar pain and some experience pain at the PIP joint for weeks to months. This resolves and seems to be related to the manipulation of the flexor tendon at the time of release. All patients receive a follow-up phone call at 48 hours post release to encourage motion and respond to questions. No additional follow-up is scheduled. Patients are told to call if they experience increased pain or loss of motion. A minority of patients do have difficulty with PIP extension. This usually responds to verbal encoura
