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Dr Trussler & Dr. Robison | Austin Hand Surgery Experts | Reconstructive Surgery | Austin, TX

Amputation

Amputation is the removal of a limb which is either severely infected or causing persistent pain. Amputation is only considered as a last resort, after all other forms of treatment have failed. Before undergoing an amputation, your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination to verify whether amputation is your only option.

Amputation is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the limb being removed and various other factors. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, an incision will be made and the affected limb is then removed.

Depending on your individual condition, the incision will either be sewn shut immediately following surgery, or it will remain open for a few days to facilitate the removal of infectious tissue. In addition, a dressing, splint, or stocking may be placed over the site of your amputation.

A hospital stay of one to two weeks is usually required following amputation. During this time, your doctor will monitor the site of your amputation and verify that it is healing properly. As soon as you are well enough, you will start physical therapy, through which you will learn how to do day-to-day tasks, such as getting into and out of bed, without your missing limb. Complications following amputation may include contracture, infection, or hematoma; however, the occurrence of these and other risks can be minimized by choosing a qualified medical professional for your procedure.

Laceration Repairs

Lacerations or wounds are common injuries that often occur from the skin hitting an object and most commonly affect the scalp, face, legs, arms, hands and feet. Minor lacerations are often short and shallow, but may be bleeding and can always be at a risk for infection.

The main goal of laceration repair is to stop the bleeding and stabilize the child if he or she is feeling faint.

Laceration repair usually includes cleaning and preparing the wound, before closing it with stitches, staples or adhesive strips. Follow up care may be required to remove the closure material and monitor the healing process. Most minor lacerations heal successfully with no complications.

The main goal of laceration repair is to stop the bleeding and stabilize the patient if faint. Laceration repair may include:

  • Cleaning and preparing the wound
  • Stitches to seal the wound
  • Staples to seal the wound
  • Adhesive strips

Trauma Care

Like any other bone in the body, the bones of the hand and forearm are susceptible to breaks or fractures, often as a result of excessive force and causing pain, swelling and limited functioning.

There are several different types of fractures which can affect the main body of the bone or just the surface, and can include a small crack, a shattering or a complete break through the skin.

Fractures of the hand are common because of its many bones and frequent use.

After confirmation of a fracture through X-ray, the affected area is often protected and held in place with a splint or cast. Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture, but often involves surgery to set or repair the bone. Wires, pins, plates or screws, which may or may not be removed at a later date, may be needed to hold the bone in place.

At Austin Hand Surgery, we provide comprehensive trauma care for all types of falls, accidents or injuries to the hand. Our skilled doctors are experienced in everything from performing emergency surgeries to administering physical rehabilitation programs.

Treatment for accidents or injuries can vary depending on the type, severity and location of the affected area, as well as the patient's overall health. Most treatment courses usually begin with conservative methods and only consider surgery as a last resort.

Physical rehabilitation is often needed in order to restore movement and function to the affected area as it heals.

Fracture Care

A fracture is defined as any type of break or crack in the bone. This can range from a small crack to a complete separation, and can be caused by a traumatic event or by normal activities in patients with low bone density, a condition known as osteoporosis. There are several different types of fractures, some of which include:

  • Stress fracture
  • Compression fracture
  • Incomplete (greenstick) fracture
  • Comminuted fracture

Fractures cause pain, swelling and bruising in the affected area, which often worsens when weight or pressure is applied. Your doctor can diagnose a fracture often just with a physical examination, although an X-ray or CT scan may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the fracture. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, treatment may include ice, rest and anti-inflammatory medication for mild fractures; casting or bracing for moderate fractures; or surgery for the most severe cases, including open fractures with wounds that need to be closed. Treatment for fractures aims to heal the bone so that it is properly aligned and able to function once again.



Call 512.450.1077 to speak with Dr. Robison and Dr. Trussler if you have any questions or comments or to learn more about how we can help you.

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