Understanding Hand Fractures and Why a Shoulder-Elbow Surgeon is Ideal for Treatment?
A hand fracture, commonly referred to as a broken hand, occurs when one or more of the bones in the hand are cracked or broken. This condition can arise from falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or direct trauma. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the hand or fingers. Proper treatment is essential to ensure full recovery and restore functionality.
While general orthopedic surgeons are skilled at treating fractures, a specialist in shoulder and elbow surgery often brings advanced expertise, particularly for complex hand fractures. These surgeons have focused training in the upper extremities, which includes intricate knowledge of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Their specialized experience ensures precise diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation tailored to the unique anatomy and functionality of the hand.
Types of Hand Fractures and Their Treatment Options
Hand fractures vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Treatment methods also differ accordingly. Below is a detailed overview:
1. Types of Hand Fractures
- Metacarpal Fractures: Affect the long bones in the palm.
- Phalangeal Fractures: Involve the bones of the fingers.
- Intra-Articular Fractures: Extend into a joint and can impact mobility.
- Open Fractures: Occur when the bone pierces the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
2. Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Immobilization: Use of casts, splints, or braces to stabilize the fracture and allow natural healing.
- Closed Reduction: A manual procedure to realign displaced bones, followed by immobilization.
- Physical Therapy: Initiated after immobilization to restore strength and mobility.
3. Surgical Treatment Options
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Involves surgically realigning bones and securing them with plates, screws, or wires.
- External Fixation: Utilizes external devices to stabilize complex or open fractures.
- Bone Grafting: May be necessary for severe fractures with bone loss.
What Type of Doctor Treats a Broken Wrist?
Spotlight on Dr. Vishal Sahni – Shoulder & Elbow Expert
Dr. Vishal Sahni is a renowned Consultant in Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgery with over 24 years of experience. Specializing in shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand disorders, Dr. Sahni has a proven track record of excellence. His dedication to innovation and patient care sets him apart in the field of orthopedic surgery.
Career Highlights:
- Awarded "Best Student of University" medal for excellence in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities during medical school.
- Completed higher surgical training in the North West of England.
- Fellowship in upper limb surgery under Professor John Stanley at Wrightington Hospital.
- Advanced training in keyhole and joint replacement surgery with Professor Simon Frostick at Royal Liverpool University Hospital.
Global Expertise:
- Prof. H Sugaya in Tokyo, Japan.
- Dr. S Nagda in Nevada, USA.
- Professor Pascal Boileu in Nice, France.
Achievements:
- Successfully pioneered robot-assisted shoulder arthroscopic surgery, marking a global first in this field.
- Published extensively and is actively involved in teaching and training.
- Senior lecturer at the University of Liverpool, mentoring many successful orthopedic surgeons.
- Organizer of annual masterclasses in shoulder and sports injuries.
Beyond Medicine:
An avid cyclist and cricketer, Dr. Sahni recently cycled from London to Paris to raise funds for Autism Initiatives. His commitment to innovation, teaching, and patient care makes him a trusted expert in treating hand fractures and other upper limb conditions.
If you’re facing a hand fracture or any upper limb injury, Dr. Vishal Sahni’s extensive experience and global expertise ensure you receive the best possible care. With a dedication to the latest advancements in treatment, Dr. Sahni is a leading choice for patients in both London and India.
FAQs with Insights from Dr. Vishal Sahni
Dr. Vishal Sahni is an orthopedic shoulder and elbow expert surgeon with 24 years of experience practicing in London and India.
Which doctor should I consult for hand and arm pain?
For persistent hand and arm pain, consult an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Vishal Sahni. With his expertise in shoulder and elbow conditions, he can accurately diagnose and provide tailored treatment for injuries or chronic pain.
What kind of doctor takes care of the hand?
A hand specialist or orthopedic surgeon is the ideal choice. Dr. Vishal Sahni, with over two decades of experience, can treat a variety of hand-related conditions, ensuring optimal care and recovery.
Which doctor is best for a bone fracture?
An experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Vishal Sahni is the best option for treating bone fractures. His advanced surgical techniques and patient-centered approach make him a top choice for managing fractures effectively.
How many days to recover from a hand fracture?
Recovery from a hand fracture typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, but full strength may require 8 to 12 weeks. Dr. Vishal Sahni emphasizes personalized care and rehabilitation to ensure quicker and complete recovery.
When to worry about a hand injury?
You should consult a specialist like Dr. Vishal Sahni if you experience:
- Severe pain, swelling, or bruising.
- Deformity or restricted movement.
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers.
- No improvement in symptoms within a few days.
What to expect when seeing a hand specialist?
- A thorough examination.
- Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRIs if necessary.
- Discussion of treatment options, from non-surgical care to advanced surgical interventions.
When to X-ray a hand?
An X-ray is essential if you suspect a fracture or serious injury. Dr. Vishal Sahni recommends getting imaging for symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, visible deformities, or loss of function.
Do orthopedic doctors treat broken fingers?
What doctors put on a broken arm?
What is a broken hand called?
A broken hand is referred to as a hand fracture. Dr. Vishal Sahni specializes in diagnosing and treating various types of hand fractures for optimal recovery.
What type of doctor treats a broken wrist?
A hand and wrist specialist or orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Vishal Sahni is the ideal choice for treating broken wrists, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions as needed.
Which doctor is best for a hand fracture?
Dr. Vishal Sahni, with his extensive experience in orthopedic surgery in London and India, is among the best doctors to consult for a hand fracture, ensuring expert care and advanced treatment options.