Microsurgical reconstruction of opposable digits in mutilating hand injuries

Abstract

Multilating hand injuries with multiple digital amputations require a cooperative patient, a highly skilled hand/microsurgical team, and a continuum of hand rehabilitation therapy for optimal functional salvage. A systematic approach for assessing a patient's functional deficit and reconstructive requirements contributes to a coordinated reconstruction and rehabilitation plan designed to optimize functional gains. Today's sophisticated microsurgical reconstruction coupled with comprehensive hand therapy generally represents the best option for patients with mutilating hand injuries. Throughout reconstruction and rehabilitation the ultimate goal of multilating hand injury care, that of restoring a functional extremity that is useful in a patient's daily life must be remembered.