Hand injuries from workplace accidents, road traffic incidents, or even minor household mishaps can lead to severe damage, affecting bones, tendons, nerves, or arteries. In such cases, immediate intervention is critical to restoring hand function and sensation, according to Dr. Neeraj Godara, Consultant Hand, Wrist, and Reconstructive Microsurgeon at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Dwarka.

“These injuries typically fall under three categories—workplace injuries, road traffic accidents, and domestic mishaps like fingers caught in doors or cuts from kitchen appliances,” explains Dr. Godara. 

Proper handling of the severed body part before reaching the hospital is crucial. He recommends first rinsing the severed part with clean water and placing it in a dry polythene bag. This bag should then be put into another bag containing ice or chilled water, ensuring no direct contact between the severed part and ice to avoid tissue damage. Meanwhile, the wound should be wrapped tightly to control bleeding.

Time is of the essence in hand reconstruction. Dr. Godara emphasizes that a severed finger can be reconstructed within 24 hours, a hand cut at the wrist within 12 hours, and injuries between the wrist and elbow within 6 hours due to muscle involvement.

Reconstruction involves fixing bones with rods or plates, followed by repairing tendons, arteries, and nerves before closing the skin. These complex surgeries rely on microscopes, micro-instruments, and ultra-fine sutures. Dr. Godara also mentions that robotic surgeries have improved nerve repair precision, enhancing outcomes.

Typically performed in specialized hospitals due to the sophisticated equipment required, these surgeries demand precise techniques to prevent complications like clotting. With the right intervention, hand reconstruction can successfully restore functionality, enabling patients to regain a normal quality of life.