[Soft tissue injuries in the area of the hand]

Soft tissue injuries to the hand are always a problem to the surgeon. A thorough examination and a precise preoperative diagnosis are the most important factors regarding forming a treatment concept. Blood supply, sensitivity and additional injuries are especially important parameters. The modern methods of plastic and reconstructive surgery involving tissue transfer and microvascular and even combined reconstruction methods, all offer multiple possibilities for reconstruction--even for problematic soft tissue injuries. The method of determining the urgency (Urgence différée) permits as even to offer patients methods that are normally only useful or successful in the hands of a specialist. Primary treatment can even take place in the first 48-72 h. If adequate operative treatment is performed by a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, the further corrective procedures that are often necessary can often also be avoided.