Hand & Wrist Specialist

Dr. S. Brent Brotzman is the top choice for the treatment of painful hand and wrist conditions. Patients in Austin, Texas, and surrounding communities, can visit Dr. Brotzman inside Brotzman Sports Medicine.

S. Brent Brotzman, MD

Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialist located in Austin, TX

Other Services

What is carpal tunnel release surgery?

Carpal tunnel release is a surgery that’s used to treat the painful condition of carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the hand is affected by numbness and tingling due to a pinched nerve at the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also be caused by injury, such as a sprain or fracture, or repetitive use of a vibrating tool. During a carpal tunnel release, the ligament that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel is cut. This makes more room for the median nerve and tendons passing through the tunnel, and will improve pain and function.

What is de Quervain syndrome?

Patients with de Quervain syndrome experience pain in the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Hand and thumb motion, such as forceful grasping or twisting, will cause pain. Patients often describe a feeling of inflammation. Treatments that can relieve symptoms include:

A splint that stops you from moving your thumb and wrist.
A cortisone-type of steroid injection into the tendon compartment.
Surgery to open the tunnel and make more room for the tendons.
Tylenol or aspirin type medications.

How is surgery for tennis elbow performed?

Tennis elbow is usually caused from the overuse of muscles attached to your elbow and used to straighten your wrist. Surgery for tennis elbow may involve:

Cutting the tendon to encourage release.
Removing inflamed tissue from the tendon.
Reattaching tendon tears

Surgery may be done using arthroscopy, traditional open surgery, or a combination of the two techniques.

What does trigger finger surgery involve?

Trigger finger is a term used to describe the painful condition in which the fingers or thumb catch or lock when bent. Trigger finger occurs when tendons in the finger or thumb become inflamed. Most often surgery is performed using local anesthesia to numb the site. The surgeon makes a small incision in the palm of the hand and cuts the tendon sheath tunnel. After it heals, the tunnel is wider and more flexible, allowing the tendon to pass through with more ease.

TESTIMONIALS

Words from our patients

"He's compassionate, so nice and down to earth, doesn't give you any uncomfortable doctor feel, and he wants to help you in the most noninvasive way possible."

" I was in and out quickly and Dr. Brotzman and his staff are all professional and very personable. Dr. Brotzman came highly recommended and I can see why."

"Wow, I'm blown away! These guys are top notch. He's not about surgery being a first resort! Which was nice to hear. I would recommend this doctor to anyone. The best!"

"Dr. Brent Brotzman is amazing! His PA and MA are also very helpful and kind. I highly recommend Dr. Brotzman and his staff."

"Fantastic experience! Both the initial office visit and at the surgery center. Dr. Brotzman is very personable, takes the time to explain every aspect of the issue"

"He's compassionate, so nice and down to earth, doesn't give you any uncomfortable doctor feel, and he wants to help you in the most noninvasive way possible."