Our Summary

This research paper discusses Syndactyly, a common birth defect where some or all of the fingers or toes are fused together. Hand surgeons often treat this condition, and there are various techniques to do so. A reliable method involves creating a rectangular flap on the back of the hand and using a combination of zigzag flaps and skin grafts for the fingers. The authors give a detailed description of how to perform this procedure, highlighting key principles for a successful outcome.

FAQs

  1. What is syndactyly and how is it treated by hand surgeons?
  2. What is the reliable method mentioned for syndactyly release?
  3. What are the key principles integral to successful outcomes in syndactyly release?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient considering a hand transplant is to carefully follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the medical team. This may include keeping the hand elevated, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in physical therapy to aid in recovery and rehabilitation. By adhering to these guidelines, patients can optimize their chances of a successful outcome following a hand transplant surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hand transplant surgery are those who have experienced severe traumatic injury, burns, or congenital abnormalities that have resulted in significant loss of function and/or appearance in the hand. These patients may have limited mobility, dexterity, or sensation in the affected hand, and may have exhausted other treatment options such as physical therapy, splinting, or prosthetic devices. Hand transplant surgery can offer these patients the potential for improved function, appearance, and quality of life.

Timeline

Before hand transplant:

  • Patient undergoes thorough evaluation by a hand transplant team to determine eligibility for the procedure
  • Patient undergoes psychological evaluation to assess readiness for the physical and emotional challenges of a hand transplant
  • Patient receives counseling and education about the risks and benefits of hand transplant
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy and other preparations to optimize their physical condition for surgery

After hand transplant:

  • Patient undergoes extensive post-operative monitoring to monitor for signs of rejection or complications
  • Patient undergoes intense physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain function and strength in the transplanted hand
  • Patient continues to receive long-term immunosuppressant medication to prevent rejection of the transplanted hand
  • Patient may require ongoing psychological support to adjust to the physical and emotional changes resulting from the hand transplant
  • Patient continues to be monitored closely by the hand transplant team for the rest of their life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Am I a candidate for a hand transplant?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a hand transplant?
  3. What is the success rate of hand transplants?
  4. What is the recovery process like after a hand transplant?
  5. Will I need to take immunosuppressant medications after the transplant?
  6. How long will it take for me to regain full function and sensation in the transplanted hand?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies I should consider before pursuing a hand transplant?
  8. How many hand transplants have you performed and what is your experience with this procedure?
  9. What kind of rehabilitation and physical therapy will I need after the transplant?
  10. How will a hand transplant affect my daily life and activities?

Reference

Authors: Sood RF, Irwin TJ, Taghinia AH. Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022 Jan 1;149(1):57e-59e. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000008689. PMID: 34936618