Dr Ma performs both endoscopic (keyhole) and open carpal tunnel release. Endoscopic release uses a small camera through a 1cm incision at the wrist, avoiding a scar in the palm and allowing a faster return to activities.
Wrist arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique using a 1.9mm camera inserted through 2–3mm portals around the wrist. It allows direct visualisation and treatment of internal wrist structures including the TFCC, ligaments, and cartilage. This is an area of advanced subspecialty expertise for Dr Ma.
Dr Ma holds a Certificate in Microsurgery from the National University Hospital Singapore. Microsurgical techniques use an operating microscope and sutures finer than a human hair to repair nerves, arteries, and veins in the hand — and can enable replantation of amputated digits.
For unstable or displaced fractures of the hand and wrist, surgical fixation ensures optimal alignment for healing and function. Dr Ma uses the most appropriate technique for each fracture pattern — from minimally invasive screw fixation to plate and screw constructs.
Trigger finger release involves a small incision in the palm to release the constricted A1 pulley, allowing the tendon to glide freely. The procedure takes 5–10 minutes under local anaesthetic. Finger movement is restored immediately.
Surgical fasciectomy involves removing the thickened, diseased fascia and cords in the palm to restore finger extension. It provides more definitive and longer-lasting results than needle aponeurotomy, particularly for severe contractures. Post-operative hand therapy is essential to maintain the correction.
One of the most common questions patients ask before surgery is how long recovery takes. The table below provides typical timelines. Individual recovery varies — Dr Ma will give you a personalised plan at your consultation.
| Procedure | Anaesthetic | Hospital stay | Light activities | Return to work (office) | Full recovery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endoscopic carpal tunnel release | Local anaesthetic | Day surgery | 2–3 days | 1–2 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Trigger finger release | Local anaesthetic | Day surgery | 2–3 days | 1–2 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Wrist arthroscopy | General or regional | Day surgery | 1–2 weeks | 2–4 weeks | 2–6 weeks (depends on pathology) |
| Dupuytren's fasciectomy | General or regional | Day surgery | 2–3 weeks | 4–6 weeks | 4–8 weeks (with hand therapy) |
| Distal radius plate fixation | General or regional | May require admission | 2–4 weeks | 4–8 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Scaphoid screw fixation | General or regional | Day surgery | 4–6 weeks | 6–8 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Microsurgery / nerve repair | General anaesthetic | Admission required | Variable | Variable | Nerve recovery: months to years |
Recovery timelines are estimates only. Your individual recovery will depend on the complexity of surgery, your general health, and your occupational and activity requirements. Dr Ma will provide personalised recovery guidance at your consultation and pre-operative appointment.
Dr Ma believes in exhausting appropriate non-surgical options before recommending surgery. Many conditions respond well to splinting, injection, or hand therapy.
Custom and off-the-shelf splints to rest inflamed structures and reduce pain.
Targeted steroid injection to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
Nerve gliding, strengthening, and ergonomic retraining by specialist hand therapists.
Ergonomic and workplace adjustments to reduce repetitive strain and allow healing.
