Avoiding unfavorable results in microsurgical reconstruction in upper-extremity trauma

The treatment of hand and upper-extremity injuries is complex. The treatment goals are to restore maximal hand function and, if possible, preinjury form. Several complications are frequently encountered while treating hand and upper-extremity injuries. Complications such as edema, direct structural destruction, and nerve palsies are the result of the inflicting injury. Skin graft contraction, fascial adhesions causing restricted tendon motion, and diminution of muscle function with time during staged reconstructions are treatment-related complications. The nature of these complications as well as means for their prevention and treatment are reviewed.