Citation

Neumeister MW, Brown RE. Hand Clin. 2003; 19(1): 1-15, v.

Affiliation

Southern Illinois University Plastic Surgery, PO Box 19653, Springfield, IL 62794, USA. mneumeister@siumed.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12683442

Abstract

The objectives of the treatment of mutilating hand injuries are to insure patient's survival, limb survival and ultimately limb function. Initially, patients are stabilized and cleared of other potentially life threatening trauma. The cornerstone to the early intra-operative management of the mangled hand includes irrigation and debribement. Skeletal stabilization, revascularization, replantation or the use of spare parts to restore functions are addressed at the initial surgery. Subsequent second or third look surgeries may be required to procure a clean wound bed. Regional flaps and free tissue transfer provides definitive coverage than soft tissue is required. Secondary procedures such as tenolysis, joint mobilization or toe transfers may be needed to restore dexterity to the healed yet dysfunctional hand. Adherence to sound safe principles help prevent further mobidity while fostering the restoration of hand function to return the patient to gainful activities.

Language: en