Who is a good candidate for hand surgery?

Patients with painful conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and Dupuytren's contracture may be suitable candidates for hand surgery.

These procedures can be performed on people of any age and is a good option for you if:

• You do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing
• You are a nonsmoker
• You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for your hand surgery
• You are committed to following your plastic surgeon's prescribed course of treatment

In some conditions, hand surgery is necessary to treat wounds and injuries. Plastic surgeons are often involved in treating patients who come to the emergency room with severe hand trauma.