Hand trauma and fracture surgery in Melbourne

Assessing the whole injury

I assess alignment, rotation, movement, sensation and circulation alongside imaging. A finger that looks reasonably straight on an X-ray can still rotate or cross over its neighbour when making a fist. Work demands and the condition of the soft tissues also influence treatment.

Fractures and joint injuries

Some fractures are best treated with a splint and monitored mobilisation. Others need reduction and fixation to address instability, rotation or joint involvement. Fixation may use wires, screws or plates according to the injury. The goal is enough stability to permit appropriate rehabilitation while limiting further injury to the surrounding tissues.

Tendons nerves and nail beds

Lacerations and crush injuries may need debridement and repair of associated structures. Delayed injuries can require reconstruction rather than direct repair. Nail-bed injury, tendon injury and nerve injury each have different healing times and possible residual symptoms. Some injuries need more than one operation.

Recovery and urgent assessment

Recovery depends on the structures injured, not just the size of the incision. Risks include infection, stiffness, tendon adhesions, altered sensation, malunion or nonunion, hardware problems and further surgery. Hand therapy and adherence to loading restrictions are central to recovery.

A cold or pale finger, uncontrolled bleeding, an open fracture or a major injury needs urgent emergency assessment. Routine appointment enquiries should not delay emergency care.

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