When All Else Fails: Tissue Loss Amputation for Relief
Thanks to advanced, modern medical treatments, a board-certified hand specialist like Dr. Uzma Rehman, offers many non-invasive as well as surgical modalities to treat injuries and medical conditions of the hand for a full recovery.
But when the injury or condition is so severe that other treatments are not effective in preserving the function or viability of the hand, tissue loss amputation of the hand may be necessary as a “last resort”. The circumstances calling for tissue loss amputation are very rare indeed.
But when this is the only remaining remedy, it is essential to obtain the services of a highly skilled and experienced board-certified hand surgeon like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Macomb County.
When is Tissue Loss Amputation Necessary?
Tissue loss amputation of the hand is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of the hand due to tissue loss resulting from injury, disease, or other conditions. Tissue loss can occur due to severe trauma, such as crushing or avulsion injuries, or from conditions such as infections, tumors, or vascular disease.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the extent of the amputation depends on the severity and location of the tissue loss.
There are several medical conditions that can necessitate tissue loss amputation of the hand. Some of the most common medical conditions that may require amputation of the hand include:
- Traumatic injuries: Severe crushing or avulsion injuries can cause extensive tissue damage to the hand, making tissue loss amputation necessary.
- Infections: Infections that are not treated promptly or effectively can lead to tissue necrosis (death of the tissue) which may necessitate amputation of the affected area.
- Tumors: Cancerous or non-cancerous tumors that grow in the hand can cause extensive tissue damage and may require amputation of the affected area.
- Vascular disease: Certain vascular diseases, such as peripheral artery disease, can cause severely reduced blood flow to the hand, leading to tissue damage and possible amputation.
- Burns: Severe burns can cause extensive tissue damage to the hand, which may require amputation if other treatments are not effective.
How is Tissue Loss Amputation Performed?
The exact surgical technique used for tissue loss amputation of the hand can vary depending on the extent of the tissue loss, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. However, generally, the procedure involves removing the dead or damaged tissue and reshaping the remaining tissue to create a functional residual limb that is as ‘normal’ looking as possible.
Tissue loss amputation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours to complete by a board-certified hand surgeon like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Macomb County.
During the procedure, board-certified hand surgeon like Dr. Uzma Rehman will make incisions to remove the damaged tissue, reposition the remaining tissue, and close the wound using sutures or staples. In some cases, the surgeon may also need to reconstruct or repair the remaining tendons, nerves, and blood vessels in the hand.
After the surgery, patients will typically be monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure that there are no complications. Patients may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the affected hand, which can be managed with pain medication and other treatments.
Recovery After Tissue Loss Amputation
The recovery period after tissue loss amputation of the hand can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s age, underlying medical conditions (such as Diabetes) and overall health. In general, patients will need to undergo physical therapy and rehabilitation to help them regain function in their residual limb. This can include exercises to help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as occupational therapy to help patients learn how to perform daily tasks with their remaining hand. Learn more about certified hand physical therapy HERE.
The recovery period can last several weeks to several months, and patients will need to follow their doctor’s instructions closely to ensure that they achieve the best possible outcome. Assistive devices such as prosthetics, adaptive equipment, or orthotics may also be used to help patients regain function and independence.
Tissue Loss Amputation Hand Surgeon | Macomb County
Each patient’s case is unique, and tissue loss amputation of the hand is a last resort that will only be considered by board-certified hand surgeon Dr. Uzma Rehman when all other treatments have been exhausted or are unlikely to be effective.
While tissue loss amputation of the hand can be a difficult and challenging procedure, it can ultimately be the best answer to eliminate pain and help patients regain function and improve their quality of life after a serious injury or medical condition.
Macomb County board-certified hand surgeon Dr. Uzma Rehman will discuss all treatment options with you to determine the best course of treatment to eliminate pain and restore hand function for your specific condition.
