Seeking Orthopedic Consultation for Sister's Severe Hand Injury

Hello, Director?

Hello, my sister's hand was run over by a gravel truck and needs to be completely reconstructed.
The blood vessels have been reconnected, but the nerves for her ring finger and little finger have not been located yet.
The skin has been repaired, but there are currently issues with joint flexion.
I would like to ask if you have outpatient clinics in Taipei.
Thank you.

Irene, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/23

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

I apologize, but I currently do not have outpatient services in Taipei.
However, I can refer you to Dr.
Chang Chih-Hao at National Taiwan University Hospital's Orthopedic Department.
He specializes in hand surgery and is an expert in this field.
You can make an appointment to consult with him.
For outpatient services and appointment scheduling, please check the National Taiwan University Hospital website.

Reply Date: 2010/02/23

More Info

I'm truly sorry to hear about your sister's severe hand injury. It sounds like a very challenging situation, and I commend you for seeking the best possible care for her. Given the complexity of her injuries, including the need for vascular and potentially nerve repair, it is crucial that she receives specialized orthopedic care.

In cases of severe hand injuries, especially those involving multiple structures like bones, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, a multidisciplinary approach is often necessary. This typically involves orthopedic surgeons, hand specialists, and sometimes plastic surgeons, particularly if there are significant soft tissue injuries. The fact that her blood vessels have been reconnected is a positive sign, but the unresolved issue with the nerve in her ring and little fingers is concerning and needs to be addressed promptly.

Regarding the joint flexion issues you mentioned, it is not uncommon for patients with severe hand injuries to experience stiffness or limited range of motion in their joints during the recovery process. This can be due to a variety of factors, including swelling, scar tissue formation, and the initial immobilization of the hand during healing. Rehabilitation and physical therapy play a crucial role in restoring function and mobility.
If your sister is experiencing difficulties with joint movement, it is essential to consult with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hand injuries. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs, to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action. Depending on the findings, they may recommend surgical intervention to address any structural issues, followed by a tailored rehabilitation program to help regain function.

As for your inquiry about whether I have office hours in Taipei, I am unable to provide specific information about individual practitioners or their locations. However, I recommend reaching out to reputable hospitals or orthopedic clinics in Taipei that specialize in hand surgery. They will likely have the necessary expertise to evaluate your sister's condition and provide the appropriate treatment plan.

In the meantime, it is important to keep the affected hand elevated and to follow any post-operative care instructions provided by the medical team. Pain management is also crucial, so ensure that she is taking any prescribed medications as directed.
Lastly, encourage your sister to be patient with her recovery process. Severe injuries can take time to heal, and while it may be frustrating, consistent follow-up care and rehabilitation are key to achieving the best possible outcome. If she has not yet started physical therapy, it may be beneficial to discuss this with her healthcare provider, as early intervention can significantly improve her recovery trajectory.

I wish your sister a smooth recovery and hope she receives the care she needs to regain full function of her hand.

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