The Benefits of In-Office Surgery

Convenient, safe, and cost-effective surgical care — right here in our Jackson, TN office.

At Sports Orthopedic & Spine in Jackson, TN, fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon Keith M. Nord, MD offers a range of hand and upper extremity procedures that can be safely and effectively performed right in the office, without the need for a hospital or outpatient surgery center.

For the right conditions, in-office surgery represents the future of surgical care: saving both time and money.

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Why In-Office Surgery?

In-office surgery, also called office-based surgery, uses the WALANT technique (Wide Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet). Instead of general anesthesia or IV sedation, Dr. Keith M. Nord uses carefully placed local anesthetic to numb the operative area while you remain awake and comfortable. For appropriate hand and upper extremity procedures, this approach avoids the risks and side effects of general anesthesia, streamlines your experience, and allows you to go home shortly after your procedure.

Key Benefits of In-Office Surgery with WALANT

Significant Cost Savings

In-office procedures cost a fraction of what the same surgery would cost at a hospital or outpatient surgery center. By avoiding facility fees, anesthesiologist fees, and other hospital-related overhead, many patients see substantial savings — especially those with high deductibles, co-insurance, or limited insurance coverage.

No Long Wait Times

In-office surgery lets you skip the lengthy pre-operative process typical of hospitals and surgery centers. You arrive at the office, have your procedure, and go home — often in under an hour total, depending on the complexity of your surgery.

No General Anesthesia

General anesthesia can cause nausea, grogginess, respiratory complications, and requires fasting before surgery. With WALANT, only the operative area is numbed. You stay awake, breathe on your own, and avoid the side effects and risks associated with general anesthesia or IV sedation.

Recover at Home the Same Day

Because in-office procedures are performed under local anesthesia, there is no need for an overnight hospital stay or prolonged observation period. After a short recovery in the office, you are able to go home and rest comfortably in your own environment.

Continuity of Care

Your procedure is performed by Dr. Keith M. Nord in his own office, supported by the same team you already know and trust. There are no hand-offs to unfamiliar hospital staff, which helps ensure consistent communication and a more personalized experience.

Proven Safety Record

WALANT hand surgery has an excellent safety profile and is increasingly recognized as the gold standard for many common hand and wrist procedures. By avoiding general anesthesia and minimizing your time in a medical facility, in-office surgery can lower the risk of certain complications.

Active Patient Participation

Because you are awake and comfortable during the procedure, Dr. Nord can ask you to move your fingers or hand in real time. This allows him to confirm that tendons, nerves, and joints are functioning as intended before the incision is closed — something that is not possible under general anesthesia.

Less Pre-Op Burden

Because in-office surgery uses local anesthesia, most patients do not need the extensive pre-operative testing, cardiology clearance, or separate anesthesia consultations that are commonly required for hospital-based procedures under general anesthesia.

Designed Around Your Life

Shorter visits, faster recovery, and fewer logistical hurdles mean less disruption to your work, family, and daily activities. For many people, in-office surgery is a more convenient, patient-friendly way to receive high-quality surgical care.

What Procedures Can Be Done In-Office?

Not every surgery is suitable for an office setting, but many common hand and wrist procedures can be performed safely and effectively using the WALANT technique. Examples include:

Carpal tunnel release (including ultrasound-guided techniques)
Trigger finger release (including ultrasound-guided techniques)
De Quervain’s release
Ganglion cyst excision (if on the back of the hand or wrist)
Mass or cyst removal in the hand, finger or wrist
Selected procedures for Dupuytren’s contracture
Other carefully selected hand and wrist procedures, depending on your specific diagnosis and overall health

Is In-Office Surgery Right for Me?

In-office surgery is not the right choice for every condition or every patient. Factors such as your overall health, medical history, specific diagnosis, and personal preferences all play an important role. During your consultation, Dr. Nord will perform a thorough evaluation, explain your options, and help you decide whether an in-office procedure or a traditional hospital-based surgery is the safest and most appropriate approach.

A Note on Safety

Patient safety is always the top priority at Sports Orthopedic & Spine. In-office surgery is offered only when it is considered safe, appropriate, and in your best interest. Our office is fully equipped for office-based hand and upper extremity procedures, with protocols in place to monitor your comfort and safety throughout your visit. If your condition or overall health would be better served in a hospital or outpatient surgery center, Dr. Nord will clearly explain why and guide you through that process.

Take the Next Step

If you are experiencing hand or wrist pain, numbness, or loss of function, an in-office procedure with WALANT may be an excellent option. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Keith M. Nord in Jackson, TN to discuss whether in-office surgery is right for you.