Hand Trauma Surgery In Minneapolis St. Paul, MN
Our hands are extremely important in our daily lives. Traumatic injuries of the hand are very common, since we use our hands constantly in our work, play, and daily living. When a hand is injured, restoring its function and appearance to be as normal as possible is a high priority. Dr. McCue has specific training and experience that enables him to perform surgery for traumatic hand injuries. He also performs some elective surgeries of the hand on referral from other physicians.
Most of us take our hands for granted, never thinking about the structures that make them work so well. Your hand is a complex part of your body, with multiple tendons, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, all crowded into a small area. Smooth, precise function of all of these parts is needed for every hand movement and function. When hands are injured, this complex balance is disrupted. Scar tissue, nerve damage, damaged or severed tendons, and other injuries are common issues hand surgeons face when repairing an injured hand.
Hand Surgery – Restoring Function to Injured Hands
Hand surgery requires an intimate knowledge of the anatomy of the human hand, and a wide range of surgical skills, including microsurgery. Specialized training is also needed to achieve the goal of any hand surgery: restoring normal function as far as is possible. If you are referred for hand surgery to Dr. McCue, he will bring all of his training and experience to bear on achieving the best possible outcome.
Dr. McCue will discuss the surgery with you and will explain what he will be doing in your surgery. As accurately as is possible before surgery, he will describe the likely outcomes from the surgery. He’ll also explain issues that may alter the outcome, so you’ll be fully informed. After your surgery, recovery time will vary. In most cases you’ll have physical therapy to help regain the maximum possible return of function. Contact Dr. McCue’s Minneapolis St. Paul office to schedule a hand reconstruction consultation.
Hand Trauma Surgery FAQs
What Types of Injuries Typically Require Hand Trauma Surgery?
Patients may need hand trauma surgery for various injuries, including:
- Bone Injuries: Fractures or dislocations that compromise bone alignment
- Nerve and Tendon Trauma: Nerve and tendon lacerations that affect sensation and movement
- Burns: Burns that may cause soft tissue damage and scarring
- Crush Injuries: Hand injury that happens at a high velocity, for example, in an auto or machinery accident.
- Cuts: Deep cuts can damage skin, the underlying soft tissues, or even bone.
Without prompt treatment, these types of hand injuries could lead to long-term disability, chronic pain, or loss of motion. We need our hands daily for routine activities so that a nonfunctional hand can be a serious disability. Surgery can help restore the affected hand’s strength, mobility, and function.
How Can Hand Trauma Surgery Restore Function and Appearance?
Hand trauma surgery restores both function and aesthetics through procedures such as:
- Fracture Stabilization: Realigning broken bones using plates or screws
- Tendon Repair: Reconnecting severed tendons to restore movement
- Nerve Reconstruction: Microsurgical techniques repair damaged nerves
- Skin Grafting or Tissue Transfer: Replacing lost tissue to improve function and appearance
Dr. McCue tailors each procedure to the patient’s unique needs for optimal outcomes.
What is Microsurgery, and Why is it Important for Hand Surgery?
Microsurgery is a highly specialized surgical approach in which Dr. McCue uses high-powered magnification to view and repair small blood vessels, nerves, and tissues. It is essential for:
- Reattaching severed fingers or limbs
- Restoring blood flow to injured areas
- Minimizing nerve damage and improving sensation
- Enhancing precision in reconstructive procedures
Dr. McCue’s microsurgical skills ensure a high success rate in restoring hand function.
How Long is the Recovery Process After Hand Trauma Surgery?
Recovery from hand trauma surgery depends on the extent of the trauma and the specific injury. Minor injuries may heal within a few months, while moderate and severe injuries could take many months to recover fully. Physical therapy is integral to the healing process because it can help you reestablish hand movement and function.
Will I Need Physical Therapy After Hand Surgery?
Most patients benefit from physical therapy, which focuses on:
- Restoring strength and flexibility
- Reducing stiffness and scar tissue formation
- Improving coordination and dexterity
A structured therapy program is crucial for regaining full hand function.
Can Dr. McCue Perform Elective Hand Surgeries?
Yes. In addition to trauma surgery, Dr. McCue performs elective hand procedures for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and arthritis-related deformities.
These surgeries help patients improve hand function and reduce discomfort.
What Are the Risks and Potential Complications of Hand Trauma Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, risks include:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Stiffness or loss of motion
- Scar formation
Dr. McCue takes every precaution to minimize risks and ensure a smooth recovery. His high-level specialized surgery skills, combined with the most advanced technology, lay the groundwork for the best results possible.
How Do I Prepare for a Consultation with Dr. McCue?
Before your consultation, it’s helpful to:
- Gather medical records related to your injury
- Make a list of symptoms
- Consider and list the ways that your hand function affects daily life
- Prepare questions about surgical options and recovery
Dr. McCue will evaluate your condition, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan.
Hand Trauma Surgery in Plymouth, MN
Dr. Jonathan McCue offers expert care at McCue Plastic Surgery in Plymouth, MN for patients in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area. Call 952-830-0089 to schedule your consultation.
