Upper Limb Trauma Surgery
Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery: Upper Limb Trauma Surgery
Upper limb trauma surgery addresses injuries to the bones, soft tissues, and joints of the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, and hand resulting from trauma. These injuries may include fractures, dislocations, tendon or ligament tears, and soft tissue damage, which can significantly affect mobility, strength, and function. Upper limb trauma surgery may be recommended to repair, reconstruct, or stabilise these structures, aiming to restore function and improve quality of life.
What Is Upper Limb Trauma Surgery?
Upper limb trauma surgery is a specialised area of orthopaedics that focuses on repairing and reconstructing injuries to the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, and hand. It involves a range of procedures tailored to the specific type and severity of the injury. Common injuries treated with upper limb trauma surgery include:
- Fractures: Breaks in bones such as the humerus, clavicle, radius, ulna, or wrist.
- Dislocations: Misalignment of joints in the shoulder, elbow, or wrist.
- Tendon or Ligament Tears: Injuries such as rotator cuff tears or ruptures of the biceps or triceps tendons.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, nerves, or blood vessels caused by trauma.
The goal of surgery is to restore the anatomy of the upper limb, enabling a return to normal function and minimising the risk of long-term complications.
Causes Of Upper Limb Trauma
Trauma to the upper limb may occur due to a variety of causes, including:
- Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand or directly onto the shoulder or elbow.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: High-impact injuries from collisions can cause severe fractures or dislocations.
- Sports Injuries: Sudden impacts, repetitive strain, or high-intensity activities.
- Workplace Accidents: Injuries involving machinery, tools, or lifting heavy objects.
- Direct Blows: Trauma from contact sports or accidental impacts.
Symptoms Of Upper Limb Injuries
The symptoms of upper limb trauma may vary depending on the nature and severity of the injury but commonly include:
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area.
- Swelling, bruising, or deformity.
- Inability to move or use the affected limb.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness, indicating possible nerve involvement.
- Visible gaps or misalignment in the case of fractures or dislocations.
- Reduced range of motion or instability in the joint.
Prompt medical evaluation is essential to assess the injury and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Risk Factors For Upper Limb Trauma
Several factors may increase the likelihood of upper limb injuries, including:
- Participation in Sports: High-impact activities such as rugby, tennis, or weightlifting.
- Occupational Hazards: Jobs requiring repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or working at heights.
- Age: Older adults are more prone to fractures due to reduced bone density, while younger individuals may sustain injuries from sports.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: Weakness or instability from previous injuries or joint disorders such as arthritis.
Treatment Options For Upper Limb Trauma
Treatment for upper limb trauma aims to relieve pain, restore function, and promote healing. Options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Immobilisation: Splints, slings, or casts to protect and support the injury.
- Pain Management: Medications or topical treatments to reduce discomfort.
- Physiotherapy: Exercises to rebuild strength, flexibility, and mobility during recovery.
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery may be required for severe injuries or when non-surgical treatments are insufficient. Options include:
- Fracture Fixation: Stabilising bones with plates, screws, rods, or wires.
- Tendon and Ligament Repair: Reattaching or reconstructing damaged tissues.
- Joint Stabilisation: Correcting dislocations and ensuring proper joint alignment.
- Soft Tissue Reconstruction: Repairing damaged nerves, blood vessels, or muscles.
- Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to treat joint or soft tissue injuries.
Dr Scott Tulloch will evaluate the injury and recommend a personalised treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome.
When Should You Seek Help For Upper Limb Injuries?
You should seek medical attention if:
- Pain, swelling, or deformity persists after an injury.
- You are unable to move or use the affected limb.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness occurs in the injured area.
- Symptoms worsen or do not improve despite rest and home care.
Early intervention is essential to minimise complications, promote healing, and restore function.
If you would like to learn more about upper limb trauma surgery or discuss your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
