Patient Questions

Harrison Solomon is an Expert Contributor on FindaTopDoc. Here are some of their recent answers to patient questions.

Surgeon
Harrison B. Solomon, MD

Hard to tell! Maybe a pinched nerve somewhere is possible. This needs further evaluation by your local hand professional. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

It depends on the exact location. However, that size can be left open without skin graft and it will heal well. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Scar revision can be performed, which improves the situation usually. You also could consider a dermatologist for laser treatment or injections, which can help a scar as well. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

You should probably just see a hand surgeon. There may be a referral to a neurologist after that, but often times that is not needed. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

I agree with you. I would seek a second opinion from a different spine surgeon first. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

You can try a brace as well as oral anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen if you are able to take that medicine. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Often it does. But of course every injury is different and a hand surgeon who has evaluated you can answer that question much better. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

That is up to your surgeon. Some surgeries can be done under local anesthesia, conversely, some surgeries require general anesthesia or sedation. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

A local anesthetic is injected adjacent to the nerve so that it goes numb. Usually, this is done farther up the arm so that the entire surgical area is numb. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Yes, fractures occasionally move a little bit in the cast. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

That depends entirely on what is causing the numbness. To answer that question, you will need to consult your local hand doctor. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

You should not have numbness in your hand. I think it’s appropriate to go ahead and have it evaluated now. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Aside from topical creams, there is laser and plastic surgery. Consult a cosmetic dermatologist who treats hands. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

It depends on the surgery. And surgeons have different opinions on this. I personally would not have a problem with it, but I would check with your surgeon. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

It’s losing its blood supply. It could be something called Raynaud’s disease. Please check with your local hand professional or primary care doctor. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

So many potential causes — it’s impossible to guess. Please make a visit with your primary care or local hand professional. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Yes, it can. Such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

I’m so sorry to hear all of that. This is a complex injury. Requiring multiple surgeries or procedures to remove some scar tissue are very common in the scenario. Second opinions are always useful. However, it needs to be in person so the hand surgeon can get a full examination. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Nerve damage comes in many different varieties. Sometimes watchful waiting is best, sometimes with medication, sometimes surgery. It really depends on the situation. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.

Many types! Everything from straight local to a full general anesthetic. It just depends on the surgery. Harrison B. Solomon, M.D.