Introduction

The human hand is a highly specialized and functional structure, essential for daily activities, work, and communication. Due to its constant exposure and involvement in manual tasks, the hand is particularly vulnerable to trauma. Hand injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to complex fractures and dislocations that significantly impair function if not treated promptly and appropriately. Early recognition and proper management are crucial to restore mobility, strength, and fine motor skills.

Causes of Hand Traumatic Injuries

Hand trauma can result from a variety of mechanisms, often depending on the patient’s occupation, lifestyle, or environment. The most common causes include:

• Industrial And Workplace Accidents – machinery, tools, or heavy objects causing crush injuries and fractures.
• Road Traffic Accidents – high-energy impact leading to complex fractures or dislocations.
• Sports Injuries – falls, direct blows, or twisting injuries leading to fractures and ligament damage.
• Domestic Accidents – cuts, burns, and falls occurring at home.
• Assaults or Sharp Injuries – lacerations or penetrating trauma leading to tendon or bone damage.

Management of Hand Injuries

The goals of management are to restore anatomy, preserve function, and minimize complications such as stiffness, deformity, or chronic pain. Treatment depends on the severity and type of injury:

Initial Care

• Wound cleaning and debridement to prevent infection.
• Immobilization and pain management.
• Tetanus prophylaxis and antibiotics where indicated.

Fracture Management

• Conservative methods:- splinting or casting for stable fractures.
• Surgical fixation:- required for unstable fractures, intra-articular injuries, or dislocations. Techniques include K-wire fixation, plates and screws, and external fixation.

Soft Tissue Repair

• Tendon, nerve, and vascular injuries require specialized microsurgical repair to preserve hand function.

Rehabilitation

• Early physiotherapy and occupational therapy are essential for regaining mobility and preventing stiffness.

Case Highlight: Middle Phalanx Fracture Dislocation Managed with Suzuki Frame

Recently, Dr Muhammad Naveed specialist Orthopedic Surgeon at Thumbay Hospital Fujairah has managed a case of a middle phalanx intra-articular fracture dislocation in a young patient. The injury occurred due to a direct blow with ball while playing cricket, resulting in severe pain, deformity, and restricted finger movement.

Given the complexity of the fracture and instability of the joint, a **Suzuki frame**—a dynamic external fixation device—was applied. This technique allows for stable fixation while permitting controlled movement of the joint. The benefits include:

• Restoration of joint alignment.
• Maintenance of fracture reduction.
• Early mobilization to prevent stiffness.

The patient tolerated the procedure well, and early follow-up showed good alignment, stable fixation, and encouraging functional recovery.

Conclusion

Hand traumatic injuries are common but potentially disabling if not managed properly. Advances in surgical techniques, such as the Suzuki frame for phalangeal fractures, have significantly improved outcomes. Timely intervention, precise surgical management, and dedicated rehabilitation remain the cornerstone of restoring optimal hand function and quality of life.