Preparing for surgery
The weeks before, the day of, and the first days at home.
Do I need someone to drive me home after my procedure?
Yes. Procedures at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance, including the in-office, sutureless trigger digit release Dr. Hunter performs for trigger finger, use local anesthesia rather than general anesthesia, but your hand may still feel less steady for the rest of the day, so plan for a ride home.
Which medications should I stop before my procedure?
Your surgical team will tell you exactly which medications to pause and when.
This often includes blood thinners and some anti-inflammatory drugs, but the list depends on your health history, so follow the instructions you are given rather than stopping anything on your own.
Will I be asleep during my procedure?
No, you will stay awake.
The in-office, sutureless trigger digit release Dr. Hunter performs, a procedure that treats trigger finger without stitches, is done under local anesthesia, meaning only the area around the finger is numbed, and you will be able to talk with the care team throughout.
What happens on the day of my procedure?
You will check in, confirm your medical history and medication list, and have the treatment area numbed before anything begins.
Dr. Hunter, who trained in orthopaedic surgery at the Campbell Clinic, will walk you through each step as it happens. Most patients finish in the same visit and do not need a hospital stay.
What is normal to feel in the days after my procedure?
Mild soreness, swelling, and stiffness at the site are common in the first few days, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Keeping the hand elevated and following any splinting instructions your team gives you can help. Everyone heals at a different pace, so your care team will tell you what to expect for your situation.
What symptoms should prompt me to call the office?
Call the office right away if you notice increasing redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or numbness that does not improve, or if pain gets noticeably worse instead of better.
These can be signs that need attention sooner than your next scheduled visit. Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance can tell you over the phone whether you need to be seen.
Who do I contact with questions about preparing for my procedure?
Call Dr. Hunter's office, Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance in Columbia, Tennessee, with any questions about preparing for your visit.
The practice is accepting new patients and can also help with appointment details, insurance questions, or anything else you are unsure about before the day of your procedure.
Ready to talk about your hand, elbow and wrist?
Call the office or request an appointment. Accepting new patients.