Hand Fractures Melbourne

Hand trauma can involve a range of injuries, including lacerations, tendon damage, nerve damage, fracture, crush injuries and loss of digits. 

Hand trauma requires expert care. This is because of the numerous crucial and mobile structures present in the hand, as well as the high number of bones present. A specialist with expertise and understanding of these structures, as well as an understanding of the significance of your specific injury, is critical. Any injuries in the hands can have a profound impact on its range of motion, as well as its use for both employment and leisure related situations.

Treating Hand Fractures 

A formal assessment is the key to determine whether surgical reduction and fixation is required for the fracture. Some fracture patterns can be managed with immobilisation in a splint. Others  are more likely to require surgical intervention especially if the fracture is displaced. Other factors such as your lifestyle, your occupation, sporting and recreational activities, as well as other medical issues and general health also need to be taken into consideration.

In cases where there is a wound overlying the fracture, it is important to undergo surgery to reduce serious contamination and infection of the exposed bone, and the fracture will often also require surgical fixation due to the lack of overlying soft tissue support. 

If fixation is required, wires, screws, or plates may be used to realign the bone structure. Wires are often temporary and will be removed in 4-6 weeks. Screws and plates will often remain in the bone permanently and will only be removed if there is a medical reason to do so.

Treating Hand Injuries 

Management of laceration and other soft tissue injuries is covered in other sections. See Hand Injuries and Surgery.