Hand Surgery
Trauma Surgery (Reconstructive Surgery)
US-Trained Surgeon15+ Years ExperiencePatient-Centred Care
Consultations are based at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital in Cape Town, with patients visiting from the Western Cape and across South Africa.
What is Trauma Surgery (Reconstructive Surgery)?
What is Trauma Surgery (Reconstructive Surgery)?
The hand consists of 27 bones and hundreds of nerves, arteries, veins, muscles, tendons and joints. This intricate design and function mean that any injury, especially trauma injuries, to the underlying structure could lead to a potentially devastating handicap. Dr Maresky specializes in emergency hand trauma surgery, providing assessment and surgical care aimed at function, comfort, and recovery.
How Much Does It Cost?
How Much Does It Cost?
Trauma Surgery (Reconstructive Surgery) at Dr. Maresky's practice typically ranges from R15,000 to R100,000, depending on your specific needs and goals. Final pricing is always confirmed during your consultation, once Dr. Maresky has assessed your individual case.
Factors that influence the cost:
- Highly variable — depends on injury severity and extent
- Often covered by medical aid
The consultation is an independent clinical assessment. Final costs are confirmed before any treatment is scheduled.
Prices are indicative and quoted at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital. Subject to change. Medical aid contributions may apply for reconstructive or medically indicated cases.
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The Procedure
Due to the range of potential injuries to the hand, a trauma surgery could require anything from a few simple stitches to a complete skin graft or microsurgical reconstruction. During the initial assessment, the surgeon will evaluate the extent of damage to bones, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues. Treatment may involve fracture fixation, tendon repair, nerve grafting, vascular reconstruction, or complex tissue reconstruction using advanced microsurgical techniques.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery & Aftercare
The recovery from a trauma surgery will depend entirely on the patient and the nature of the trauma. Some hand injuries can heal within a few weeks while others can take several months to heal completely. Early mobilization and hand therapy are crucial for optimal recovery. Patients typically begin gentle exercises within days of surgery, progressing to more intensive rehabilitation as healing allows.
Expected Results
Expected Results
With proper surgical intervention and rehabilitation, most patients can expect significant improvement in hand function and appearance. The goal is to restore maximum function while minimizing pain and disability. Early assessment and appropriate surgical planning can support functional recovery.
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Why Choose Dr. Maresky
Safety First
Personalized Planning
Personalized Care
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hand injuries require emergency trauma surgery?
Emergency hand trauma surgery is required for severe lacerations involving tendons or nerves, open fractures, crush injuries, amputations, high-pressure injection injuries, severe burns, and any injury with compromised blood supply to the hand or fingers.
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How quickly should I seek treatment for a hand injury?
Hand injuries should be evaluated immediately, ideally within 6-8 hours of injury. Some injuries, particularly those involving nerve or blood vessel damage, require surgery within hours to maximize the chance of successful repair and function recovery.
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Will I regain full function of my hand after trauma surgery?
The extent of functional recovery depends on the severity and type of injury, timing of treatment, and your commitment to rehabilitation. While complete restoration isn't always possible, significant improvement in function can usually be achieved with proper surgical care and therapy.
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What should I do immediately after a hand injury?
Control bleeding with direct pressure, elevate the hand, apply ice wrapped in cloth, and seek immediate medical attention. For amputated parts, wrap them in moist gauze, place in a plastic bag, and keep cool (not directly on ice).
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How long will I be unable to work after hand trauma surgery?
Time off work varies greatly depending on your job and the extent of injury. Office workers may return within days to weeks with modifications, while manual laborers may need several months. Dr Maresky will provide specific guidance based on your injury and occupation.
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Will I need hand therapy after surgery?
Yes, hand therapy is typically essential for optimal recovery. It helps restore movement, strength, and function while preventing complications like stiffness and adhesions. Therapy usually begins within days of surgery and may continue for several months.
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What are the signs of complications after hand trauma surgery?
Contact Dr Maresky immediately if you experience increasing pain, swelling, redness, warmth, discharge, fever, numbness, tingling, or inability to move your fingers. These may indicate infection or other complications requiring prompt attention.
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Can hand trauma surgery be performed under local anesthesia?
Simple repairs may be performed under local anesthesia, but complex trauma surgery often requires regional blocks or general anesthesia. The choice depends on the extent of injury, expected duration of surgery, and patient factors.
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How much does emergency hand trauma surgery cost?
Costs vary significantly based on the complexity of the injury and required procedures. Emergency trauma surgery may be covered by medical aid or insurance. Dr Maresky's team will help coordinate with your insurance provider and discuss payment options.
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What makes Dr Maresky qualified for hand trauma surgery?
Dr Maresky is a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive training in hand surgery and microsurgery. He has experience treating complex hand trauma cases and uses surgical techniques selected for the injury and patient goals.
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