Evaluation of long-term results in mutilating hand injuries

BACKGROUND
The aim of this study is to report the surgical procedures performed
in patients with mutilating hand injuries and evaluate
the outcomes of treatment.
METHODS
A retrospective evaluation of 130 patients operated between
2000 and 2005 for mutilating hand injuries is presented.
Twenty-five of the patients could be followed until the end of
rehabilitation. The grip power and ranges of motion in affected
joints were determined. Minnesota manipulation speed test
and Purdue Pegboard Test were used for evaluation of functional
results.
RESULTS
Mean range of motion was 64.7% (minimum: 17%, maximum
96%) of the uninjured extremity. Mean grip strength was 52%
(15-80%) of the uninjured extremity. Lateral pinch was 66%
(25%-81%) of the contralateral hand and the results were 53%
(12%-68%) for key pinch and 52% for tripod pinch.
Minnesota manipulation speed test showed satisfactory results
in 92% of the patients in hand skill, strength and coordination.
A decrease in fine motor skills was observed in Purdue
Pegboard Test.
CONCLUSION
The main treatment purposes in mutilating hand injuries are
obtaining an extremity that is useful in daily activities and if
possible that facilitates a return to work.
Key Words: Mutilated hand; amputation, traumatic/surgery; hand;
hand injuries; finger injuries; reconstructive surgical procedures; soft
tissue injuries/surgery