General Info

Hand and Finger Amputations

Partial or complete amputations of the hand and fingers are situations where prompt intervention is crucial. In complete amputations, the limb is entirely detached, necessitating immediate reattachment due to severed blood vessels. In partial amputations, some connection between the hand or finger and the body remains, allowing limited blood circulation if vessels are intact. Consequently, the timeframe for intervention may be slightly extended. The primary factor influencing the success of treatment and surgical procedures is the speed at which the severed part is brought to the healthcare facility. Reattaching the severed part is known as replantation. However, it is not always possible to reattach the severed part, as this depends on the extent of damage sustained by the organ.

Tendon, Nerve, and Vessel Injuries

Trauma from accidents such as work-related incidents or traffic accidents can cause significant damage to tendons, nerves, and vessels in the hands. Immediate treatment is critical to preserve the organ’s functionality. Delayed medical attention for such injuries can lead to permanent impairments, such as reduced hand functionality and mobility. In cases where vessel injuries remain untreated, tissues supplied by these vessels may lose oxygen, resulting in tissue death. Therefore, urgent medical intervention and appropriate surgical techniques are essential in addressing trauma-related tendon, nerve, and vessel injuries.

Fractures in the Hand and Fingers

The hand and fingers are complex structures composed of numerous small bones and joints, making them more susceptible to fractures than many other body parts. Fractures may occur due to falls, crushing, impacts, or twisting injuries, often accompanied by severe pain and swelling. The risk of fractures is particularly high in individuals over middle age and postmenopausal women due to reduced bone density. Finger fractures typically heal more easily, while hand fractures often require careful treatment to avoid long-term impairment of hand function.

Nail Injuries, Ingrown Nails, and Deformities

Nail injuries, ingrown nails, and deformities are common issues treated in hand surgery clinics. Constant pressure or trauma to the nails can result in injuries and ingrowths, leading to deformities that may cause aesthetic concerns. Untreated ingrown nails can become increasingly painful and lead to infections in the surrounding tissue. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent these conditions from worsening.

Congenital Hand Anomalies

Congenital anomalies, such as extra fingers, fused fingers, or abnormal finger positioning, may occur due to genetic factors. These conditions can be corrected or improved through surgical interventions in hand surgery clinics. Addressing these anomalies not only improves hand appearance but also enhances functionality, allowing individuals to perform daily activities more efficiently.

Nerve Compression

Nerve compression can occur in various body parts, including the hands, elbows, and wrists. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome are common examples. These conditions can reduce hand mobility, cause muscle atrophy, and lead to sensory loss. Contributing factors include prolonged flexed positions of the hands or elbows and continuous pressure on specific points. Micro-surgical techniques in hand surgery clinics can effectively treat nerve compression-related issues.

Hand Tumors

Benign and malignant tumors can develop in the hands and wrists, with glomus tumors, wrist cysts, and ganglion tumors being the most common. These tumors often cause swelling and tend to grow over time. Early surgical removal is usually recommended to prevent further complications. Since tumors may recur, regular follow-ups after surgery are essential.

Trigger Finger

Known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger is characterized by locking or snapping sensations in the fingers, often accompanied by pain. This condition hinders daily activities and requires treatment, starting with muscle relaxants or medications. If these methods are ineffective, micro-surgical techniques can be employed to resolve the issue.

Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture starts with stiffness in the palm and progresses to finger bending and loss of movement, caused by thickening of the palmar aponeurosis tissue beneath the palm skin. If left untreated, it can severely restrict finger mobility. In mild cases, cortisone injections may prevent disease progression. In advanced cases, surgical removal of the contracted tissue, followed by physical therapy, is required.

Surgical Treatment in Hand and Finger Conditions

The above-mentioned conditions are commonly encountered in the hands, fingers, and wrists, often necessitating surgical intervention. Due to the intricate nature of the hands, surgeries require a high degree of precision, with micro-surgical techniques being the preferred approach. If you have a condition requiring hand surgery expertise, consult a healthcare professional promptly to start your treatment process before the condition progresses.

This content was developed with contributions from the Medical Park Editorial Board. The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not include therapeutic health service-related details. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.