Dramatic advances have been made in recent years in treating patients with hand injuries, degenerative disorders, and birth defects of the hand. At the forefront of these advances have been plastic surgeons specialists whose major interest is improving both function and appearance. In addition to plastic surgical training, Dr. Bolitho has undergone intensive training in hand surgery, and treats patients with a wide range of hand problems.

If You Are Considering Hand Surgery

If you're considering hand surgery, a consultation with Dr. Bolitho is a good place to start. He will examine you, discuss the possible methods of treatment for your problem, and let you know if surgery is warranted. If this is the case, he will discuss the procedure in detail, including where the surgery will be performed (in the office, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital), the anesthesia and surgical techniques that will be used. He will also discuss the possible risks and complications, the recovery and rehabilitation period, and the probable outcome in terms of function and appearance.

Since hand surgery is performed primarily to correct physical abnormalities, it usually is covered by insurance. Check your policy or call your carrier to be sure.

Hand Injuries and Conditions

The most common procedures in hand surgery are those done to repair injured hands, including injuries to the tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and joints; fractured bones; and burns, cuts, and other injuries to the skin. Modern techniques have greatly improved the surgeon's ability to restore function and appearance, even in severe injuries, and when you are confronted with the challenges of carpal tunnel syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis.

Dr. Bolitho can repair or reconstruct almost any area of the hand or wrist by removing tissue from inflamed joints, repositioning tendons, or implanting artificial joints. While your hand may not regain its full use, you can generally expect a significant improvement in function and appearance. Still, it's important to remember that surgical repair doesn't eliminate the underlying disease. Rheumatoid arthritis can continue to cause damage to your hand, sometimes requiring further surgery, and you'll still need to see your rheumatologist for continuing care.

Congenital Defects

Congenital deformities of the hand -- that is, deformities a child is born with-- can interfere with proper hand growth and cause significant problems in the use of the hand. Fortunately, with modern surgical techniques most defects can be corrected at a very early age, in some cases during infancy. Other defects can be corrected at two or three years, allowing normal development and functioning of the hand.