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Specialist offering Wide-Awake Hand Surgery in South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Farmington, UT

Certain procedures of the hand and wrist may be performed under local anesthesia with the patient fully conscious. Hand Surgery (University of Utah Health) in South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Farmington, UToffers expert diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatment plans. Hand Surgery (University of Utah Health) also provides specialized care during and after surgery. To learn more about wide-awake handsurgery, contact Hand Surgery (University of Utah Health) office in South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Farmington, UT for an appointment today!

What is Wide-Awake Hand Surgery?

Wide-awake hand surgery, also known as wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT), is a procedure in which hand surgery is performed without any sedation or general anesthesia.

Indications for Wide-Awake Hand Surgery

Wide-awake hand surgery can be used for:

    • Trigger finger release
    • Carpal tunnel release
    • Finger fracture fixation
    • Ligament repair
    • Osteotomy
    • Replacement of finger joints
    • Tendon lacerations and soft tissue surgery
    • Thumb arthritis surgery
    • Ganglion cyst removal
    • Mucous cyst removal

Preparing for Wide-Awake Hand Surgery

Specific instructions will be provided by your hand surgeon. In general:

  • Stop smoking as it can slow down the healing process.
  • Inform your surgeon about any health conditions, allergies, and regular medications.
  • You do not have to fast prior to the surgery as general anesthesia will not be administered.
  • You may not need to arrange for transportation, as many patients are able to drive themselves home.

Procedure for Wide-Awake Hand Surgery

The procedure for wide-awake-hand surgery includes the following:

  • You will not need to change your clothes to a patient’s gown.
  • You will not need to have an IV placed.
  • Your doctor will inject a local anesthesia such as lidocaine with epinephrine to completely numb the surgical site.
  • Your hand will be cleaned and prepared.
  • Depending on your condition, the appropriate surgical procedure will be performed while you are wide awake, but you do not have to observe.
  • The surgeon may ask you to move your hand during the procedure to optimize outcomes.
  • The surgical incision will be closed with sutures and covered with a dressing after which you can return home.

Risks and Complications of Wide-Awake Hand Surgery

Wide-Awake Hand Surgery is a very safe procedure and has been shown to be even safer than traditional hand surgery for certain patients. However, like many surgeries there is a minimal risk of infection, delayed healing, and or other issues after surgery.

Advantages of Wide-Awake Hand Surgery

Advantages of wide-awake hand surgery include:

  • Avoids side effects of traditional anesthesia techniques
  • Lower cost
  • Faster visits for small hand procedures
  • You may not need to arrange for transportation, as many patients are able to drive themselves home

If you would like to have additional information on wide-awake hand surgery or other procedures, please contact Hand Surgery (University of Utah Health) in South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Farmington, UT.