Management of Complications in Common Hand and Wrist Procedures: A Comprehensive Guide for Surgeons

Hand and wrist surgery is a complex field that requires meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of potential complications. While the majority of hand and wrist procedures are performed successfully without any adverse events, there remains a risk of complications that surgeons must be prepared to manage effectively.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the management of complications in common hand and wrist procedures. It covers the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of a wide range of potential complications, including:

Management of Complications in Common Hand and Wrist Procedures: FESSH Instructional Course Book 2024

by Adolph Barr

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Language	:	English
File size	:	28868 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	266 pages
Hardcover	:	94 pages
Item Weight	:	9.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.38 x 8.5 inches

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• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Tendon rupture
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

Infection

Infection is one of the most common complications of hand and wrist surgery. It can occur in the surgical wound, in the surrounding tissues, or in the bone.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of infection is based on the following symptoms:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Drainage from the wound
• Fever

Prevention

The following measures can be taken to prevent infection:

• Using sterile technique during surgery
• Prescribing antibiotics before and after surgery
• Educating patients on wound care

Treatment

The treatment of infection depends on the severity of the infection. Minor infections can be treated with oral antibiotics. More severe infections may require intravenous antibiotics or surgical debridement.

Bleeding

Bleeding is another common complication of hand and wrist surgery. It can occur during surgery or in the postoperative period.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of bleeding is based on the following symptoms:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Ecchymosis
• Hematoma

Prevention

The following measures can be taken to prevent bleeding:

• Using meticulous hemostasis during surgery
• Prescribing anti-platelet medications before and after surgery
• Avoiding excessive pressure on the surgical site

Treatment

The treatment of bleeding depends on the severity of the bleeding. Minor bleeding can be treated with conservative measures, such as elevation and ice. More severe bleeding may require surgical intervention.

Nerve Damage

Nerve damage is a rare but serious complication of hand and wrist surgery. It can occur during surgery or in the postoperative period.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of nerve damage is based on the following symptoms:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pain
• Weakness
• Loss of function

Prevention

The following measures can be taken to prevent nerve damage:

• Using meticulous surgical technique
• Avoiding excessive traction on nerves
• Using nerve stimulators to identify nerves during surgery

Treatment

The treatment of nerve damage depends on the severity of the injury. Minor nerve injuries may recover spontaneously. More severe nerve injuries may require surgical repair or nerve grafting.

Tendon Rupture

Tendon rupture is a rare but serious complication of hand and wrist surgery. It can occur during surgery or in the postoperative period.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of tendon rupture is based on the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Loss of function
• A palpable gap in the tendon

Prevention

The following measures can be taken to prevent tendon rupture:

• Using meticulous surgical technique
• Avoiding excessive tension on tendons
• Using tendon grafts to reinforce weakened tendons

Treatment

The treatment of tendon rupture depends on the severity of the injury. Minor tendon ruptures may be treated with conservative measures, such as immobilization and rehabilitation. More

Management of Complications in Common Hand and Wrist Procedures: FESSH Instructional Course Book 2024

by Adolph Barr

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28868 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages
Hardcover	:	94 pages
Item Weight	:	9.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.38 x 8.5 inches

FREE