The hands and wrists are central to how many people live their daily lives. Whether typing on a keyboard, cooking a meal, or playing your favorite sport, your wrists work hard daily. A wrist injury can greatly disrupt the normal rhythm of life.
This guide will explain the value of choosing an expert wrist surgeon. It covers understanding your injury and the surgery to correct it. You will also learn about recovery and how to find a surgeon who can meet your needs.
Understanding Complex Wrist Fractures and Injuries
The wrist is a complex joint with multiple bones, tendons, and ligaments working together. Because of this complexity, wrist injuries can vary in nature and severity.
Distal Radius Fractures
This injury often happens due to falling onto your outstretched hand. Minor fractures might heal with a cast. However, complex cases might need surgery to repair.
Scaphoid Fractures
The scaphoid is a tiny bone inside of your wrist. Sports injuries and car accidents are the most common reasons it might get damaged.
It is critical to see a doctor immediately for a scaphoid injury. Delayed treatment can lead to long-term problems, because it does not receive as much blood as other bones.
Ligament Tears
Ligament tears often occur among athletes or people who get in accidents. Torn ligaments can destabilize the wrist, causing severe pain and restricted movement.
Comminuted Fractures
These fractures involve multiple bone fragments, which makes them challenging to treat. Repairing this type of fracture will need skilled surgical expertise.
Complex Dislocations
Bones and joints can get misaligned due to injuries. Restoring proper alignment can often require surgical correction.
Why Experience Matters
Experience in hand and wrist surgery is helpful. But why should you look for a highly experienced surgeon?
The Wrist is Complex
Wrist surgeries are delicate procedures that require expert skills. The wrist has multiple small structures, like nerves, thin tendons, and small bones, which can get damaged if precision and skill are not used around them.
Uncommon or Severe Cases
Experienced surgeons have likely treated a wider range of wrist injuries. They will likely have handled rare or unusually severe cases. They can predict challenges and tailor their approach to each patient.
Personalized Rehabilitation Plans
Experienced wrist surgeons can also provide tailored recovery plans. Patients might need a particular approach to rehabilitation and recovery.
Leveraging Advanced Techniques
Top surgeons keep pace with advancements in surgery. Modern techniques might involve minimally invasive techniques, for example. Advanced techniques might offer faster recovery time, quicker healing, and less post-op pain.
Surgery for Wrist Injuries
Understanding the surgical process can make it less intimidating and help you feel more prepared.
Initial Assessment and Diagnostic Imaging
Your surgeon will start by getting a detailed assessment of your injury. High-resolution imaging tools allow them to see the complexity of your injury. This information helps your wrist surgeon plan your operation effectively.
Customized Treatment Plan
Every wrist injury is unique. A seasoned doctor will develop a tailored approach based on your fracture, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
The Surgical Procedure
What your doctor will do during the surgery varies depending on your injury.
Broken bones might mean that your doctor will use plates and screws to stabilize broken bones while they heal. You might receive a bone graft for more severe fractures or if there is missing bone.
Your doctor will use a ligament or tendon repair if your connective tissue is torn or damaged.
Another option is a minimally invasive approach called arthroscopy. This technique minimizes scarring and quickens recovery time.
Post-Surgical Care
Once the surgery is complete, your surgeon will provide clear steps for recovery. This plan covers medication for pain management and wound care instructions. You will likely also receive referrals to physical therapy.
Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Long-Term Care
Surgery is just the beginning of many steps towards getting better. Rehabilitation and long-term care are equally important to regain full function.
If you need physical therapy, it is important to attend each session. Your doctor will also provide several post-op instructions to keep your wrist safe and facilitate healing.
If your wrist begins to swell or you feel severe pain, contact your doctor right away.
Scheduling regular visits to your wrist surgeon will let them check on your wrist. These consultations let your doctor confirm you are healing correctly.
Finding the Right Wrist Surgeon
Finding a good wrist surgeon can be hard if you do not know what to look for. If you have spent a lot of time online looking for the best wrist surgeon, consider these:
Qualifications and Specialization
Look for board-certified hand and wrist surgeons with specialized training in treating complex injuries.
Reviews and References
Explore patient reviews on trusted platforms. Ask friends, family, or other healthcare professionals for referrals.
Communication and Trust
A good surgeon will ensure you feel comfortable and confident about your treatment plan. They can help answer any questions you may have.
Facility and Technology
Access to advanced imaging tools and a modern surgical suite can help with your care. They give your surgeon more accurate information.
Convenience
A nearby surgeon makes it easier for you to go to their clinic or hospital. Convenient access helps you have regular visits for follow-ups and rehabilitation.
Best Wrist Surgeon in Miami Lakes & Plantation, FL
Your hands and wrists are central to how you experience the world. An experienced wrist surgeon can be the specialist you need to fix your injuries. Take the time to find a qualified, experienced wrist surgeon, so you receive expert care.
At the heart of successful treatment lies a skilled professional. The experts at the Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center will consider each patient’s needs. We prioritize expertise, clear communication, and a genuine commitment to your recovery. Call (954) 635-5300 today, or schedule a consultation online.
We look forward to helping you return to the activities you love!
Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/distal-radius-fracture-wrist-fracture
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-wrist/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353175
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/distal-radius-fractures-broken-wrist/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22252-comminuted-fracture
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/scaphoid-fracture-of-the-wrist
