[Bilateral hand salvage of subtotal left hand amputation and complex right wrist destruction]

Unfallchirurg. 2016 Jun;119(6):527-31. doi: 10.1007/s00113-015-0113-9.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Complex injuries of the hand and wrist lead to severe loss of function. Complex trauma of the upper extremities may lead to severe disabilities and therefore meticulous reconstruction is of utmost importance to enable good functional outcome and to assure an adequate quality of life. We demonstrate the case of a patient who suffered from complex bilateral injuries at the wrist level including a subtotal amputation of the left hand and third degree open wrist destruction on the contralateral side. Due to the immediate bilateral operation including the unilateral use of an osteocutaneous free fibula flap, both hands could be salvaged in this case. Severe hand and wrist injuries also require intensive postoperative treatment including intensive physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pain therapy and psychological support to achieve a good functional result.

Keywords: Bilateral; Free flap; Subtotal; Traumatic amputation; Wrist injuries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Amputation Stumps / surgery
  • Amputation, Traumatic / rehabilitation*
  • Amputation, Traumatic / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Trauma / rehabilitation*
  • Multiple Trauma / surgery*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wrist Injuries / rehabilitation*
  • Wrist Injuries / surgery*