De Quervain's Tenosynovitis


De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. It results from inflammation of the sheath that surrounds two specific tendons that extend to the thumb.


The symptoms include pain and swelling near the base of the thumb, which can extend up the forearm, particularly when forming a fist, grasping objects, or turning the wrist. Treatment often involves rest, splinting the thumb and wrist, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and in more persistent cases, surgery might be considered to relieve the pressure on the tendons. 

Symptoms of De Quervain's tenosynovitis include:

  • Pain along the back of the thumb, directly over the two tendons to the thumb.
  • Swelling near the base of the thumb.
  • Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist when doing activities that involve grasping or pinching.
  • A "sticking" or "stop-and-go" sensation in the thumb when trying to move it.
  • Pain that may travel up the forearm when the thumb is used.


De Quervain's tenosynovitiscan be caused by a variety of factors:

  • Repetitive Hand Movements: Activities that involve repetitive grasping, pinching, or wringing motions can lead to inflammation.
  • Chronic Overuse: Frequent use of the thumb and wrist, especially in awkward positions.
  • Inflammatory Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can predispose individuals to tenosynovitis.
  • Hormonal Changes: It often occurs in postpartum women, potentially linked to hormonal fluctuations or increased demands from caring for a newborn.
  • Trauma: Direct injury to the wrist or base of the thumb can trigger inflammation.

What are the treatment options for De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

  • Rest: Avoiding activities that cause thumb and wrist pain.
  • Splinting: Wearing a splint to reduce movement and allow the wrist and thumb to rest.
  • Ice: Applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling.
  • Anti-inflammatory Medications: Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting steroids into the tendon sheath to decrease inflammation and pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Engaging in exercises to strengthen the wrist and improve range of motion.
  • Surgery: If conservative treatments don't relieve symptoms, a surgical procedure to release the sheath may be necessary.

Reasons for minimal anesthesia during finger surgery

Minimally invasive surgery with local anesthesia is often chosen for finger surgeries due to several key benefits:


  • Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Local anesthesia limits pain during and immediately after the procedure without the side effects of general anesthesia.
  • Faster Recovery: Smaller incisions and localized anesthesia contribute to quicker healing and shorter hospital stays.
  • Lower Risk of Complications: With smaller incisions and local anesthesia, the risks associated with surgery, such as infections and bleeding, are minimized.
  • Increased Precision: Minimally invasive techniques can provide surgeons with better precision, especially in delicate areas like the fingers.
  • Convenience: Patients usually remain awake and can avoid the grogginess and recovery often required after general anesthesia, allowing them to return home the same day.

What are the surgical procedures for treating De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

The surgical procedure for De Quervain's tenosynovitis typically involves a small incision at the wrist near the base of the thumb. The surgeon then opens the compartment (sheath) that houses the inflamed tendons, allowing more room for the tendons to move freely. This relieves pressure and reduces inflammation.


The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and usually does not require an overnight hospital stay. Recovery may involve wearing a splint and participating in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. 

Advantages of Hand Surgery at Yonsei Standa in South Korea

  • Expertise: Led by Dr. Jang Ki-joon, an experienced orthopedic surgeon who has performed over 3,000 finger surgeries.
  • Advanced Techniques: Utilization of minimally invasive and state-of-the-art surgical methods, including Wide-Awake Hand Surgery.
  • Comprehensive Care: Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
  • Affordability: Competitive pricing compared to international standards.
  • Convenient Recovery: Short-stay surgeries allowing same-day discharge without the need for fasting.

These advantages make Yonsei Standa a preferred choice for finger surgery.

Various Cases of Finger Surgeries

Meet Dr. Kijoon Jang in South Korea

Dr. Kijoon Jang, a renowned orthopedic surgeon in South Korea specializing in hand and finger surgeries, currently serves as the head doctor at Yonsei Standar Orthopedics. Dr. Jang has performed over 2,000 surgical procedures related to the hand, showcasing his expertise and dedication in the field. He is recognized as one of the leading specialists in South Korea for intricate finger surgeries, providing patients with advanced and specialized care.  

Contact Us


Operating Hours 


Mon, Thur

AM 09:30 - PM 08:00 (manual therapy, 9pm)

Tue, Wed, Fri

AM 09:30 - PM 07:00 (manual therapy, 8pm)

Sat

AM 09:30 - PM 02:00 (manual therapy, 2pm)

We operate without a lunch break on Saturdays. 

Lunch Break on Weekdays 

PM 01:00 - PM 02:00


Location


Address

2F, 605, Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea 

Email

ysstandardos@naver.com

연세스탠다 정형외과


서울시 서초구 강남대로 605 휴먼타워 2층 (서울 서초구 잠원동 20-9)    l   대표전화: 02 – 511 - 2077   l   팩스: 02-511-2066

대표자: 장기준    l   사업자번호: 522-97-00849   l   척추, 관절, 통증, 도수치료, 운동/재활치료   l   © 2020 by Yonsei Standar Orthopedics all rights reserved