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Upper Limb Trauma

What is upper limb trauma?

Upper limb trauma refers to traumatic injuries of the upper limb, including the elbow, arm, wrist and hand. These injuries can occur at home, around the house, outside, directly on the playing field or while at work. It's important to be aware of the types of upper limb injuries one is susceptible to, which include tendon injuries, soft tissue injuries, and bone fractures, among others.

Orthopaedic surgeons are a crucial part of a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals. They are responsible for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of traumatic upper limb injuries. This team also includes a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, who plays an integral role in the treatment process. They utilise advanced techniques, including free flaps for complete coverage, ensuring that you receive the most effective treatment for your upper limb trauma.

What are the general signs of upper extremity injuries?

Some common signs of upper extremity injuries, although these are considered general symptoms and require a formal diagnosis from an experienced healthcare professional, include the following:

  • Deformity or the exposure of bone
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Tenderness or a numb sensation in the region
  • Bruising, swelling and pain

How do you check for arm and hand injuries?

Thankfully, there are a variety of tests such as ultrasounds, X-rays, CT scans and MRIs available to check for arm and hand injuries. These tests can accurately determine the severity of the injuries, providing you with the information you need for your healthcare decisions.

What does treatment for arm and hand injuries involve?

Rest assured, treatment for arm and hand injuries is effective and largely depends on the type of injury and its severity. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons are equipped with specialised techniques such as microsurgery and flap reconstruction to restore parts of the upper limb after deep cuts, nerve damage, and injury to the tendons.

Dr Phalafala’s Commitment

Dr Phalafala's success lies in her collaborative, detail-oriented approach to complex surgery. She develops personalised treatment plans focused on each patient’s unique needs, supported by a foundation of empathy, communication, and clinical excellence. Her goal is to provide transformative outcomes through reconstructive and cosmetic surgery that not only enhance form and function but also restore confidence and quality of life.

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