Repairing and Reconstructing the Hand and Wrist: A Comprehensive Guide

This issue of Clinics in Plastic Surgery, expertly curated by Dr. Kevin C. Chung, delves into the intricacies of repairing and reconstructing the hand and wrist. It covers a wide range of topics, from soft tissue and bone and joint issues to nerve compression and tendon injuries.

Soft Tissue Coverage of the Digits and Hands

Soft tissue injuries in the hands and digits require specialized care to ensure optimal recovery. This section provides insights into the latest techniques and strategies for soft tissue coverage, ensuring both functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Nerve Compression in the Upper Limb

Nerve compression is a common issue in the upper limb, leading to pain, numbness, and loss of function. This article explores the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for nerve compression, including both conservative and surgical approaches.

Flexor Tendon Injuries

Flexor tendon injuries can significantly impact hand function. This section discusses the different types of flexor tendon injuries, their diagnosis, and treatment options, including repair techniques and postoperative care.

Tendon Transfers for Peripheral Nerve Palsies

Tendon transfers are a crucial part of reconstructive surgery for peripheral nerve palsies. This article outlines the principles and techniques of tendon transfers, highlighting the importance of careful planning and execution for optimal results.

Tendinopathy

Tendinopathy is a common condition affecting the tendons in the hand and wrist. This section explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tendinopathy, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper management.

Managing Swan-Neck and Boutonniere Deformities

Swan-neck and boutonniere deformities can significantly impact hand function and aesthetics. This article discusses the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for these conditions, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches.

The Pathogenesis and Treatment of the Stiff Digit

A stiff digit can be a challenging condition to treat. This section delves into the pathogenesis of stiff digits and explores the various treatment options available, including physical therapy, splinting, and surgery.

Nerve Tumors of the Upper Extremity

Nerve tumors in the upper extremity can cause significant morbidity if left untreated. This article discusses the different types of nerve tumors, their diagnosis, and treatment options, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.

Managing Mutilating Hand Injuries

Mutilating hand injuries require specialized care to restore both function and aesthetics. This section outlines the principles and techniques of managing such injuries, including the role of replantation, reconstruction, and rehabilitation.

Efficiency in Digital and Hand Replantation

Digital and hand replantation are complex procedures requiring meticulous planning and execution. This article explores the key factors influencing the success of replantation, including patient selection, surgical technique, and postoperative care.

Hand Infections

Hand infections can lead to significant morbidity if not treated promptly and appropriately. This section discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hand infections, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper management.

Managing Extensor Tendon Injuries After the Flexor Tendon

Extensor tendon injuries can occur in conjunction with flexor tendon injuries or as isolated events. This article outlines the diagnosis, treatment options, and postoperative care for extensor tendon injuries, highlighting the importance of careful management to prevent complications.

Thumb Basal Joint Arthritis

Thumb basal joint arthritis is a common condition affecting the thumb joint. This section explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches.

Principles of Phalangeal and Metacarpal Fracture Treatment

Phalangeal and metacarpal fractures require careful management to ensure optimal healing and prevent long-term complications. This article discusses the principles of treating these fractures, including reduction techniques, fixation methods, and postoperative care.

Pediatric Hand and Wrist Fractures

Fractures in the pediatric hand and wrist require specialized care due to ongoing growth and development. This section outlines the unique considerations and treatment options for pediatric hand and wrist fractures, emphasizing the importance of careful management to prevent long-term complications.

Injuries Around the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint

Injuries around the proximal interphalangeal joint can significantly impact hand function. This article discusses the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for these injuries, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches.

Treatment of Carpal and Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Carpal and distal radioulnar joint instability can lead to chronic pain and disability. This section explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for these conditions, highlighting the importance of early intervention and proper management.

Common Carpal Bone Fractures

Carpal bone fractures are common injuries requiring careful management to ensure optimal healing and prevent long-term complications. This article discusses the diagnosis, treatment options, and postoperative care for common carpal bone fractures.

Joint Fusion and Arthroplasty in the Hand

Joint fusion and arthroplasty are surgical options for managing hand and wrist conditions. This section outlines the principles and techniques of these procedures, highlighting the importance of careful planning and execution for optimal results.

Treatment of Common Congenital Hand Conditions

Congenital hand conditions require specialized care to address both functional and aesthetic concerns. This article discusses the treatment options for common congenital hand conditions, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper management.