Plastic Surgery: Volume 6: Hand and Upper Extremity

Anesthesia for upper extremity surgery

Synopsis ■ Optimal perioperative anesthetic outcomes are achieved by a thorough understanding of anatomy, pharmacology, techniques, and potential complications. ■ Local anesthetics (LA) make regional anesthesia possible by preventing the propagation of nerve conduction and by inhibiting or relieving pain.…

Diagnostic imaging of the hand and wrist

Synopsis ■ Radiographs form the cornerstone of diagnostic imaging of the hand and wrist, and are usually the first imaging modalities performed following clinical evaluation. ■ The keys to obtaining the most information from radiographs are ordering the correct radiographs…

Examination of the upper extremity

Synopsis ■ Physical examination of the upper extremity starts with a detailed and accurate patient history. ■ Physical examination of the upper extremity consists of inspection, palpation, measurement of length, girth, and ranges of motion, assessment of stability, and detailed…

Anatomy and biomechanics of the hand

Synopsis ■ The hand is an incredibly designed structure with complex anatomy and precise biomechanics. The hand must be able to produce adequate force to allow performance of activities of daily living. Furthermore, it must ensure coordination of the fingers…