There are more bones in the hands than most people realize. When one or more of these bones are broken or fractured, it can disturb the alignment and balance of the whole structure. Some people think that bone fractures and breaks are different from one another. The truth is they are one and the same; just a different choice of words.
There are key places in the hands where fractures tend to occur the most. Fractures of the knuckles or the area just under the knuckles are quite common. These are sometimes referred to as a “boxer’s fracture”. Sometimes the fracture is very close to the bottom of the bone, close to the wrist. Other times, it might not be a literal fracture at all, as in the case of a displaced fracture. This is when a bone in the hand is not in its normal position.
Surgical Treatment for Broken Hand Bones
When the hand bone structure has been significantly damaged, hand surgery is often necessary. Broken hand bones that require surgery often pierce the skin of the individual and are very painful. The surgical procedure for repairing these injuries may involve the use of wires, screws or even plates to realign the bone structure and heal the broken bones. During the healing process, the hand is to be examined every once in a while to ensure the bones are aligned properly.
Some hand fractures are so severe that the bone is crushed and cannot be repaired. Sometimes a piece of bone might be missing altogether. In these cases, a bone graft might be necessary. This is when bone is collected from another part of the body and used to repair the bone in the hand.
What to Expect After Hand Surgery
It’s normal for swelling and redness to occur in the hand after surgery. This normally lasts for about one to two weeks. The discomfort can usually be lessened considerably by taking over-the-counter medication. The patient might notice that the fingers on his or her hands do not bend or appear exactly the same as they used to. This is perfectly normal considering the level of injury that has occurred.
Contact Us Today for a Consultation
If you are dealing with a bone fracture, we encourage you to visit Real Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery in Moonee Ponds to learn more about your options for hand surgery. Proudly serving the Melbourne and surrounding areas, Mr. Salerno uses a wide range of methods and techniques. Contact his office today to request a consultation for hand surgery.
