Hand trauma

Hand trauma surgery encompasses a variety of surgical procedures aimed at repairing and restoring the function, appearance, and integrity of the hand following injury. Hand trauma can result from various causes, including accidents, falls, sports injuries, and workplace incidents.

Given the complexity and importance of the hand, specialised surgical intervention is often required to address the intricate anatomy of bones, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues.

If you suspect a hand injury, seek medical attention at your nearest emergency department promptly. Only if the emergency department feel your injury does not require immediate surgical attention should you consider treatment in the private sector.

Procedure overview

Type of anaesthetic

  • Local or General

Length of operation

  • 30 minutes to 2 hours

Length of hospital stay

  • Same day discharge

Recovery period

  • 1 to 2 weeks off work

  • 6 weeks before strenuous exercise

What you need to know

Suitability

Hand trauma treatment is suitable for individuals who have sustained injuries to the bones, tendons, nerves, or soft tissues of the hand. Early medical intervention is essential, especially if there is severe pain, swelling, deformity, or loss of function. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider or hand specialist is necessary to determine the extent of the injury and the most appropriate treatment plan.

Long-term outcomes

The long-term outcomes of hand trauma treatment are generally positive, especially with early and appropriate intervention. Most patients regain significant function and experience pain relief. However, some severe injuries may result in residual stiffness, reduced range of motion, or chronic pain. Ongoing physical therapy and regular follow-up with your healthcare provider can help maximise recovery and maintain hand function.

Goals of hand trauma surgery

The primary goals of hand trauma surgery are to restore function and alleviate pain. This involves reestablishing the hand’s ability to perform essential tasks such as gripping, holding, and manipulating objects, while reducing or eliminating discomfort caused by the injury.

Additionally, surgery aims to improve the appearance of the hand by correcting deformities and restoring its natural look. Another crucial goal is to prevent complications, addressing issues like infections, stiffness, and chronic pain to avoid long-term disability.

Types of hand trauma procedure

Common types of hand trauma surgery includes:

  • Fracture Reduction and Fixation: For broken bones, the surgeon may perform closed reduction (manipulating the bone back into place without surgery) or open reduction (surgical realignment). Fixation devices such as pins, screws, or plates may be used to stabilise the bones during healing.

  • Tendon Repair: Tendon injuries often require surgical repair to reattach the torn ends. This involves suturing the tendon ends together, sometimes using grafts if the damage is extensive.

  • Nerve Repair: Nerve injuries can be repaired through microsurgery, which involves suturing the severed nerve ends together or using nerve grafts to bridge gaps. This delicate procedure is crucial for restoring sensation and function.

  • Soft Tissue Repair: Lacerations and soft tissue injuries may require suturing and careful wound management to prevent infection and promote healing.

  • Joint Dislocation Reduction: Dislocated joints are manually realigned, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments and stabilise the joint

Recovery

Recovery from hand trauma treatment depends on the injury's severity and the type of treatment received. Patients can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the initial recovery phase, managed with pain medications, ice packs, and elevation.

Physical therapy is often essential to restore strength, flexibility, and function. The duration of recovery varies; minor injuries may heal within a few weeks, while severe injuries can take several months. Following your healthcare provider’s post-operative care instructions and attending all follow-up appointments are crucial for optimal recovery.

Potential complications

As with any surgical procedure, scar management procedures carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Mrs Teo will discuss all possible risks and complications during your consultation to ensure you make an informed decision.

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 FAQs

  • Hand trauma surgery involves various procedures to repair and restore the function, appearance, and integrity of the hand after injury. This can include treating fractures, tendon injuries, nerve damage, vascular injuries, and soft tissue damage.

  • If you suspect a hand injury, seek medical attention at your nearest emergency department promptly. Only if the emergency department feel your injury does not require immediate surgical attention should you consider treatment in the private sector.

  • Ater a hand injury, it’s important to immobilise the hand, apply ice to reduce swelling, and seek medical attention promptly. Avoid moving the injured hand to prevent further damage.

  • If not treated promptly and properly, hand trauma can lead to permanent damage, such as chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of function. Early and effective treatment is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

  • Surgery is often necessary when there are significant injuries such as broken bones, severed tendons or nerves, damaged blood vessels, or severe soft tissue damage that cannot heal properly without surgical intervention.

  • A hand fracture is diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to determine the fracture's location and severity.

  • Tendon injuries often require surgical repair, especially if the tendon is completely torn. The decision for surgery will depend on the injury's severity and the overall condition of the hand.

  • Recovery time varies depending on the injury and type of surgery. Minor injuries may heal within a few weeks, while severe injuries can take several months. Physical therapy is often required to aid recovery.

  • Hand trauma treatment is often covered by health insurance, especially when it involves necessary surgical interventions, emergency care, or rehabilitation. Coverage details can vary based on your insurance plan and provider, so it's important to check with your insurance company to understand what is included in your policy and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

Book a Consultation Today

Take the first step of your cosmetic surgery journey by booking a personalised consultation with Isabel, where you can ask detailed questions, discuss your specific goals, and receive expert guidance tailored to your unique needs.