Nellie Movtchan, MDAesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery
Nellie Movtchan, MD

Reconstructive · Hand

Hand surgery.
Focused on function.

Understanding evaluation and treatment for injuries and conditions that affect how your hand works, with the goal of restoring use where possible.

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Illustrative concept photography; not a patient result
Illustrative concept photograph of a sunlit still life; not a patient result

Understanding the care

What it may address.

Hand surgery treats injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and fingers, including tendon and nerve injuries, fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytren’s contracture, arthritis, and congenital differences. Many conditions are treated without surgery first. When surgery is considered, the focus is function, and hand therapy is often part of recovery.

Other reconstructive care

Who this is for

Often after a referral.

Many people are referred by an emergency department, urgent care, primary care doctor, or therapist. Some injuries are time-sensitive, so seek urgent care for a new, serious injury.

  • People with a recent hand or wrist injury.
  • People with numbness, tingling, pain, or loss of motion.
  • People whose condition has not improved with other treatment.
  • Referring clinicians seeking evaluation for a patient.

A first visit

What to expect and bring.

A first visit focuses on how your hand works now and what you need it to do.

Illustrative consultation scene; not Dr. Movtchan or her patients

  1. Your history

    Describe how and when the problem began, and what you have tried.

  2. Your records

    Bring X-rays, MRI or nerve studies, and notes from earlier care.

  3. Your examination

    Expect testing of motion, strength, and sensation in the hand.

  4. Your next steps

    Discuss nonsurgical and surgical options, therapy, risks, and recovery.

Benefits & limitations

Understand the risks alongside the possibilities.

Understand the alternatives and limitations as well as the potential benefits. Outcomes vary, and surgery cannot guarantee a particular result.

Function may not return fully. Your health and the planned operation affect the risk assessment. Possible risks include:

  • Bleeding or infection
  • Stiffness
  • Persistent pain
  • Changes in sensation
  • Poor healing
  • Tendon adhesions
  • Further surgery
  • Anesthesia complications

Recovery planning

Make room for healing.

Hand recovery often depends on protecting the repair while regaining motion, and on consistent therapy.

  1. Before surgery

    Plan practical support

    Ask about help with daily tasks, driving, and time away from work.

  2. Early recovery

    Protect the repair

    Understand splints, dressings, elevation, medication instructions, and symptoms that need a call to the surgical team.

  3. Rehabilitation

    Work with hand therapy

    Discuss the therapy plan, exercises, and milestones for work and activity.

Recovery varies with the injury, the operation, and the individual. Follow the instructions given by your surgical and therapy team.

Questions

What people ask before they call.

Does every hand problem need surgery?

No. Many conditions improve with splinting, therapy, injections, or time. Ask which options fit your condition.

How soon should an injury be seen?

Some injuries, such as cut tendons or nerves, are time-sensitive. For a new, serious injury, seek urgent or emergency care.

Will I need hand therapy?

Often, yes. Therapy can be important for regaining motion and strength after surgery. Ask how it would be arranged.

Do I need a referral?

Some people are referred by a physician and others call directly. Insurance plans may require a referral. Ask the office what is needed before your first visit.