TRAUMA DEFORMITY CORRECTION
Trauma is common. It can take place at work, home or in transit. For some of us affected by these events, it can result in temporary or permanent disability. Both the function and appearance may be affected secondary to trauma.
Many times it is possible to improve these deformities resulting in an improvement in function and aesthetics with the help of plastic surgery. Reconstruction may take the form of release of contractures, nerve repair, and/or, flap cover. The goal of these procedures is an improvement in form and function.
Who is a good candidate for correction of post-trauma deformities?
This includes:
When is it a good time to undergo correction of these deformities?
This is decided on a case to case basis. The affected tissues must be supple. In the case of injuries which involve nerve repair prolonged delay can affect the outcome negatively. Early reconstruction is also carried out in cases of severe functional limitations.
How is it the reconstruction of post-trauma deformities carried done?
It starts with a consultation. Patients should be willing to disclose the presence of allergies, co-existing illness and other relevant conditions. The details of the previous treatments are reviewed. Additional tests like blood investigations and imaging may be requested for better delineation of the abnormality. Usually, treatment options are offered to the patient. They differ based on the complexity of the reconstruction, recovery, and outcomes. In some cases staged reconstruction may be undertaken. For example, in cases which require correction of bilateral hand deformities, both hands are not operated simultaneously. Physical therapy is an important part of the treatment. Last but not the least, regular follow-up is very important.
What is unique about plastic surgery for post-trauma reconstructions?
These procedures involve treating around scarred tissues. Scarred tissues heal less readily when compared to unscarred tissues. As with other reconstructive procedures, realistic expectations about the treatment and the ability to comply with the post procedure instructions are very important for optimal outcomes.
What is the goal of these reconstructive procedures?
It is an improvement of the function and form. Together they lead to improvement in self-esteem and confidence. Functional restoration leads to gainful employment.
Many times it is possible to improve these deformities resulting in an improvement in function and aesthetics with the help of plastic surgery. Reconstruction may take the form of release of contractures, nerve repair, and/or, flap cover. The goal of these procedures is an improvement in form and function.
Who is a good candidate for correction of post-trauma deformities?
This includes:
- Patients bothered affected by these conditions and who are motivated to improve them. Some of these cases require prolonged physiotherapy after surgery.
- Patients should be willing for prolonged physical therapy and follow-up. This is essential for optimal outcomes following these procedures.
- A good candidate should have realistic expectations with the procedure. Complete correction or restoration is usually not possible.
- Patients should not have any serious co-morbid conditions.
- Non-smokers. Smoking leads to sub-optimal outcomes.
When is it a good time to undergo correction of these deformities?
This is decided on a case to case basis. The affected tissues must be supple. In the case of injuries which involve nerve repair prolonged delay can affect the outcome negatively. Early reconstruction is also carried out in cases of severe functional limitations.
How is it the reconstruction of post-trauma deformities carried done?
It starts with a consultation. Patients should be willing to disclose the presence of allergies, co-existing illness and other relevant conditions. The details of the previous treatments are reviewed. Additional tests like blood investigations and imaging may be requested for better delineation of the abnormality. Usually, treatment options are offered to the patient. They differ based on the complexity of the reconstruction, recovery, and outcomes. In some cases staged reconstruction may be undertaken. For example, in cases which require correction of bilateral hand deformities, both hands are not operated simultaneously. Physical therapy is an important part of the treatment. Last but not the least, regular follow-up is very important.
What is unique about plastic surgery for post-trauma reconstructions?
These procedures involve treating around scarred tissues. Scarred tissues heal less readily when compared to unscarred tissues. As with other reconstructive procedures, realistic expectations about the treatment and the ability to comply with the post procedure instructions are very important for optimal outcomes.
What is the goal of these reconstructive procedures?
It is an improvement of the function and form. Together they lead to improvement in self-esteem and confidence. Functional restoration leads to gainful employment.
After crush injury with soft tissue and bony abnormalities
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Contracture release with osteotomy, K-wire fixation and cross finger flap cover
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Straightening of the digit which allows improved fist making following release of the contracture.
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Post-trauma flexion contracture of the big toe
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After release of the flexor of the big toe
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