Our Summary

The research paper discusses a study on a specific type of hand fracture that is common among young adults and often occurs during sports or work-related activities. If not properly treated, these fractures can lead to long-term pain and instability in the finger joints, affecting hand function and the patient’s quality of life.

The study looked at a treatment method called hemi-hamate arthroplasty, which involves reconstructing the fractured bone using a graft from another bone in the hand. The researchers used this method to treat 17 patients and followed up with them at least six months after the surgery.

The patients were asked to complete several surveys to assess their hand function and quality of life after the surgery. Strength tests and range of motion measurements were also taken on both the operated and non-operated fingers.

The results showed that most patients had good outcomes from the surgery, with high levels of hand strength and range of motion, and low levels of pain and disability. Two patients developed arthritis after the surgery and received synthetic joints.

Overall, the study concluded that hemi-hamate arthroplasty is an effective treatment for these types of fractures.

FAQs

  1. What is hemi-hamate arthroplasty and how is it used in treating hand fractures?
  2. What were the outcomes of the surgery based on the study’s findings?
  3. Did any complications arise from the surgery, based on the results of this study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hand surgery is to follow the post-operative care instructions diligently. This may include keeping the hand elevated, performing prescribed exercises for rehabilitation, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments. By following these instructions, the patient can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcomes from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hand surgery include those with:

  1. Hand fractures: Fractures in the bones of the hand, such as metacarpal or phalangeal fractures, may require surgery to realign the bones and promote proper healing.

  2. Tendon injuries: Injuries to the tendons in the hand, such as tendon lacerations or ruptures, may require surgery to repair the damage and restore function.

  3. Nerve injuries: Injuries to the nerves in the hand, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral nerve injuries, may require surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves and improve function.

  4. Arthritis: Severe arthritis in the hand joints may require surgical procedures such as joint replacement or fusion to reduce pain and improve function.

  5. Dupuytren’s contracture: This condition causes the fingers to bend inward due to thickening and tightening of the connective tissue in the palm. Surgery may be recommended to release the contracted tissue and restore finger function.

  6. Congenital hand deformities: Some patients may be born with hand deformities that require surgical correction to improve function and appearance.

  7. Tumors: Patients with tumors or growths in the hand may require surgery to remove the abnormal tissue and prevent further complications.

Overall, hand surgery may be recommended for patients with a variety of conditions that affect the function and structure of the hand, with the goal of improving hand function, relieving pain, and enhancing quality of life.

Timeline

Before the hand surgery:

  1. Patient experiences a hand fracture, often due to sports or work-related activities.
  2. Patient undergoes initial assessment and diagnosis by a healthcare provider.
  3. Treatment options are discussed, including the possibility of hand surgery.
  4. Patient decides to undergo hemi-hamate arthroplasty surgery.

After the hand surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the hemi-hamate arthroplasty surgery to reconstruct the fractured bone.
  2. Patient undergoes post-operative care and rehabilitation.
  3. Patient is followed up with at least six months after the surgery.
  4. Patient completes surveys and undergoes strength tests and range of motion measurements to assess hand function.
  5. Results show good outcomes with high levels of hand strength and range of motion, and low levels of pain and disability.
  6. Two patients develop arthritis post-surgery and receive synthetic joints.
  7. Study concludes that hemi-hamate arthroplasty is an effective treatment for these types of fractures.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hand surgery include:

  1. What are the specific risks and benefits of hemi-hamate arthroplasty for my particular hand fracture?
  2. How many surgeries of this type have you performed and what is your success rate?
  3. What is the typical recovery process after this type of surgery?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  5. What are the potential complications or long-term effects of this surgery?
  6. How soon after the surgery can I expect to return to my normal activities, such as sports or work?
  7. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered for my hand fracture?
  9. How can I best manage pain and discomfort after the surgery?
  10. What should I expect in terms of hand function and quality of life after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Verdins K, Nefjodovs V. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2019 Sep;24(3):342-346. doi: 10.1142/S2424835519500437. PMID: 31438800