Norwalk-based OrthoConnecticut Coastal Orthopedics performs awake hand surgery, local news affiliate wtnh.com reported Jan. 28.
Brandon Shulman, MD, operated on a 31-year-old new mother who had pain and a loss of motion in her hand due to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Dr. Shulman doesn't use tourniquets, but instead injects numbing medicine and epinephrine to ensure the patient can stay awake during the procedure. By approaching the procedure this way, the patient doesn't need to go under for the tourniquet, can move their fingers during surgery and can drive home after the procedure.
The woman has recovered and is pain-free.