Watch this animation video to learn about de Quervain tendon release surgery. Sufferers of “mummy’s thumb” or de Quervain tenosynovitis experience sharp pain and/or swelling at the wrist under the thumb.

Prolonged and/or forceful use of your thumb and wrist may lead to the thickening and swelling of the tendon or the tunnel. The tendons no longer glide freely within the tunnel, resulting in pain when you move your thumb and wrist.

If your symptoms are mild, you may be given conservative treatment such as:
Activity modifications
Wearing of splint
Steroid injection
If the symptoms are more severe and persistent, you may be required to undergo the de Quervain tendon release surgery which is typically a day surgery procedure done under local anaesthesia. Your surgeon will cut through the sheath surrounding the tendons to release the pressure on them, allowing them to glide freely when you move your thumb and wrist.

Steps in the de Quervain tendon release surgery:
1) Your wrist and hand are numbed with a local anaesthetic
2) An incision will be made on your wrist, near the base of your thumb
3) Surgeon cuts the sheath surrounding the tendon, taking care to avoid any nerve close by
4) Incision is closed and a compression bandage is applied. Your wrist and hand are then bandaged.

To learn more about the condition, visit the NUH website, www.nuh.com.sg/HealthInformation/DiseasesConditions/Pages/DeQuervain'stenosynovitis.aspx

For an appointment with NUH, visit
https://www.nuh.com.sg/patientsvisit...

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