Meticulous Repair for an Injury That’s More Than Skin Deep. 

A deep cut to the hand or wrist can damage the intricate structures responsible for movement and sensation. We provide advanced microsurgical and reconstructive solutions to ensure the best possible recovery, focusing on restoring both function and form. 

Restoring Function, Not Just Closing a Wound. 

A traumatic laceration is an alarming event. While the immediate concern is the visible wound and bleeding that invariably occurs, the most critical damage is often hidden beneath the skin. The nerves, tendons, and blood vessels that control your hand are delicate and complex. A specialized repair can be essential to prevent permanent loss of function and ensure a full recovery. The structures that are damaged more deeply may not be initially recognized and present later as a complication. Reconstructing these structures at a later time is more challenging but it is something we specialize in. 

Understanding the Hidden Damage

The human hand is an intricate network of tissues working in perfect harmony. A deep, traumatic wound can simultaneously injure multiple critical structures, each requiring specialized attention: 

• Tendons: These strong cords connect muscle to bone, allowing you to bend and straighten your fingers. A severed tendon will result in a loss of movement.  However, a partially cut tendon may initially appear to work normally but later on rupture under a forceful load. 

• Nerves: Tiny nerves provide sensation (touch, pain, temperature) and carry signals to your muscles. A cut nerve can lead to permanent numbness and weakness. 

• Blood Vessels: Arteries and veins supply the blood needed for the tissues to survive. Damage to these can compromise the health of your hand or finger. 

A Comprehensive Approach to Wound Repair 

Meticulous Tendon Repair

• To restore movement, severed tendons must be carefully stitched back together. Dr. French uses precise techniques to ensure a strong, smooth repair, allowing for an early mobilization and rehabilitation process that helps you regain your  range of motion. 

Microsurgical Nerve Repair

• Nerve repairs are among the most delicate procedures in surgery. Using a high-powered microscope and ultra-fine sutures, Dr. French performs microsurgery to painstakingly realign and repair severed nerves. This meticulous technique is the key to restoring sensation and preventing lasting numbness. 

Vascular Repair (Microsurgery)

• If major arteries or veins are damaged, microsurgery is also used to repair them. Re-establishing proper blood flow is absolutely critical for the survival of the tissues and for successful healing of the entire injury. 

Plastic Surgery Closure

• The final step is closing the skin. As a plastic surgeon, Dr. French applies meticulous techniques to ensure the wound is closed in a way that minimizes scarring and leads to the best possible functional and aesthetic outcome. 

The Dual Expertise Needed for a Complete Recovery

A traumatic laceration is not just a skin problem; it’s a multi-layered reconstructive challenge. The treating surgeon must be an expert in every layer, from the microscopic nerves deep inside to the skin on the surface. Dr. French’s is a Harvard-trained Hand and Microsurgeon and a plastic surgeon possessing the skill sets to manage these complex injuries, providing a single, expert source for a complete and meticulous repair. 

Important Notice for Severe Wounds

If you have a deep, actively bleeding wound, apply direct pressure and go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately. Our practice provides specialized consultation and surgical reconstruction for patients once their condition is stable.