Our Summary

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a procedure where fat is taken from one part of the body and transplanted to another part. Traditionally, it has been used for facial enhancement and restoration, but recently it’s being used to treat hand conditions. This treatment is ideal for the hand because it doesn’t involve major surgery, can fill up lost volume, and helps in tissue regeneration.

The paper is a review of studies on the safety and effectiveness of AFG in treating hand conditions such as systemic sclerosis (hardening of the skin), Dupuytren disease (thickening of hand tissues), osteoarthritis (joint inflammation), burns, and injuries to the fingertips. The studies were selected from a large database of research articles.

The review found that AFG is a safe, non-surgical option for treating these conditions. The studies show that AFG can help with wound healing and restoring hand function with limited complications. However, more studies are needed to fully understand its effectiveness and to establish solid clinical guidelines.

FAQs

  1. What is Autologous fat grafting (AFG) and how is it used in hand treatments?
  2. What conditions can be potentially treated with AFG according to the reviewed studies?
  3. What were the findings of the review on the safety and effectiveness of AFG in treating hand conditions?

Doctor’s Tip

Before considering a hand transplant, it’s important to discuss all treatment options with your doctor, including AFG. It’s also important to consider the potential risks and benefits of each option. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for a hand transplant include those who have experienced severe hand injuries, burns, congenital deformities, or degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. These patients may have limited hand function or mobility, and a hand transplant could potentially improve their quality of life and overall function.

Additionally, patients with systemic sclerosis or Dupuytren disease may benefit from autologous fat grafting to restore lost volume and improve hand function. This procedure can help with tissue regeneration and wound healing in these conditions.

Overall, patients who are recommended for hand transplant or autologous fat grafting are those who have significant hand impairments that can potentially be improved through these procedures. It is important for patients to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment options for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before hand transplant:

  • Patient experiences hand condition such as systemic sclerosis, Dupuytren disease, osteoarthritis, burns, or injuries to the fingertips.
  • Patient undergoes evaluation by a hand transplant team to determine eligibility for a hand transplant.
  • Patient may undergo autologous fat grafting as a non-surgical treatment option to improve hand function and appearance.

After hand transplant:

  • Patient undergoes a complex surgical procedure to receive a donor hand transplant.
  • Patient undergoes extensive rehabilitation to regain hand function and learn how to use the new hand.
  • Patient may experience complications such as rejection or infection, which require ongoing medical management.
  • Patient gradually adapts to using the new hand and may experience improved quality of life and functional abilities.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How does autologous fat grafting work for treating hand conditions compared to traditional treatments?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with autologous fat grafting for hand conditions?
  3. How long does the recovery process typically take after undergoing autologous fat grafting for hand conditions?
  4. Are there any specific hand conditions or patient factors that may make someone a better candidate for autologous fat grafting?
  5. What should I expect in terms of pain management and follow-up care after undergoing autologous fat grafting for a hand condition?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing autologous fat grafting for a hand condition?
  7. How many procedures may be required to achieve the desired results for my specific hand condition?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after undergoing autologous fat grafting for a hand condition?
  9. Can you provide me with information on the success rates of autologous fat grafting for hand conditions based on your experience and research?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider in addition to or instead of autologous fat grafting for my hand condition?

Reference

Authors: Khouri AN, Adidharma W, MacEachern M, Haase SC, Waljee JF, Cederna PS, Strong AL. Journal: Hand (N Y). 2023 Jun;18(4):543-552. doi: 10.1177/15589447211066347. Epub 2022 Feb 8. PMID: 35130761