Xiapex post procedure instructions
After the injections:
1/ Remove any dressing the same evening or the next morning. Remove immediately if it feels too tight.
2/ Expect to see bruising, swelling, blisters; bruising up your arm, have armpit pain, an armpit nodule (swollen gland) and sometimes even bleeding. These are all the effect of Xiapex doing it’s job breaking down the diseased cord. For the first day or two to reduce the swelling you can hold your arm in the air, the way the Statue of Liberty holds her torch.
3/ Do not try to manipulate or straighten your finger
4/ Avoid heavy grasping or squeezing and heavy use of the hand.
After manipulation:
1/ Remove any dressing the same evening or the next morning. Remove immediately if it feels too tight.
2/ If there is a small hole just cover it with a light bandage or plaster, use some antiseptic cream and clean it daily until it has closed
3/ If you were given a splint, use it at night only.
4/ Start exercising your fingers the same day! Make a tight fist and fully open your hand, spread your fingers apart and straighten them together. Put your hand down flat on a table and push down with your other hand. For the PIP joint (middle joint in the finger) put your index finger on top of the joint and your thumb underneath, to stretch the joint till it’s as straight as possible.
5/ Massage any nodules and the spots where the needles went in with moisturising cream or Vitamin E oil 2-3 times daily for a few minutes each time.
6/ Avoid heavy grasping and grasping activities for two weeks (using tools, tennis, lifting)
7/ If you were referred for Hand Therapy start as soon as possible.
8/ If you suspect an allergic reaction or infection contact your nearest A&E department, and inform the hand clinic afterwards.
With thanks to Dr Gary Pess MD for allowing us to use his aftercare leaflets.