Home > Videos > Orthopedic > Revolutionizing Hand Surgery: Insights From Dr. Abhijeet Wahegaonkar

Revolutionizing Hand Surgery: Insights From Dr. Abhijeet Wahegaonkar

The Journey Into Hand Surgery

Dr. Abhijeet Wahegaonkar’s journey in hand surgery began with treating leprosy patients—individuals often ostracized by society. By performing surgeries on them, he witnessed their overwhelming emotions, as they felt accepted and cared for. This experience inspired him to dedicate his career to hand surgery, a field that has evolved significantly over the last century.

The Role Of Technology In Hand Surgery

Technological advancements have significantly improved the precision and success rate of hand surgeries. Dr. Wahegaonkar highlights the role of:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning. 
• Robotic Microsurgery – Enhancing surgical accuracy.
• Computer-Guided Surgery – Allowing for better precision and minimally invasive procedures.

Additionally, arthroscopic surgery—once limited to large joints—can now be performed on small joints of the fingers and wrist, further improving patient outcomes.

A Life-Changing Surgery: The Story Of A Young Girl

One of the most memorable cases in Dr. Wahegaonkar’s career involved a young girl born without thumbs. Since the thumb contributes to nearly 50% of hand functionality, she faced significant challenges in daily life. After thorough consultation with her parents, doctors performed Pollicization Surgery, a procedure that transforms an index finger into a thumb.

The results were remarkable. The girl could now perform simple yet essential tasks like unwrapping chocolates and holding a pen. She was so impressed with the transformation that, at just three years old, she requested surgery on her other hand. This case remains a source of inspiration for Dr. Wahegaonkar.

The Resilience Of An Injured Child

Another remarkable case involved an 11-year-old girl whose hand was severely crushed in an elevator accident. Her arm was nearly severed at the elbow. The surgery lasted 14 hours, involving bone repair, muscle reattachment, and microvascular reconstruction.

Years later, the same girl invited Dr. Wahegaonkar to her wedding, a heartwarming reminder of the life-changing impact of hand surgery.

A Sportsman’s Determination

Dr. Wahegaonkar also recalls treating a dedicated gym-goer who suffered a wrist fracture. A previous failed surgery had left him in severe pain and unable to lift weights. The complex reconstruction procedure involved repairing shattered bones and replacing broken plates.

Beyond the surgery, the patient’s determination was inspiring. He continuously updated the medical team on his progress, proudly sharing milestones such as lifting 50 kilograms post-recovery.

When Does One Need Hand Surgery?

Hand surgery is not always the first course of action. However, certain symptoms may indicate the need for medical intervention:

• Persistent pain or weakness 
• Numbness or tingling (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Injuries affecting functionality
• Infections with pus formation
• Congenital deformities

In many cases, physiotherapy, medications, and splints can provide relief. However, consulting a specialist ensures the best course of treatment.

Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery: A Breakthrough In Hand Surgery

Microvascular surgery is a specialized technique used for complex hand injuries and reconstructions. It involves:

• Replantation Surgery – Reattaching a severed hand or fingers. 
• Bone Grafting with Blood Supply – Transplanting bone with its blood vessels for healing large defects.
• Microvascular Flap Surgery – Covering non-healing wounds using tissue from another part of the body.

These techniques have transformed the field of hand surgery, enabling successful treatment for previously untreatable conditions.

A Final Word Of Advice

Dr. Wahegaonkar emphasizes that instead of relying on online searches for solutions, individuals with hand, wrist, elbow, or arm problems should consult a qualified hand surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment.

FAQ’s 

1. What are the most common reasons someone might need hand surgery?
   Hand surgery is often needed for persistent pain, weakness, numbness, tingling (such as in carpal tunnel syndrome), congenital deformities, trauma-related injuries, and infections involving pus formation.
2. How has technology improved the outcomes of hand surgeries?
   Advancements like Artificial Intelligence, robotic microsurgery, computer-guided surgery, and arthroscopy have made procedures more precise, less invasive, and more successful than ever before.
3. What is Pollicization Surgery, and who can benefit from it?
   Pollicization Surgery is a technique that transforms the index finger into a thumb, particularly beneficial for individuals born without thumbs. It significantly improves hand functionality and quality of life.
4. What is microvascular reconstructive surgery in hand care?
   Microvascular surgery involves replanting severed limbs or fingers, bone grafting with blood supply, and flap surgeries. These techniques restore function and appearance in complex hand injuries.
5. Can hand surgery restore complete functionality after severe injuries?
   While results vary based on the injury’s severity, many patients—like those with crushed or severed hands—can regain significant function and even return to active lifestyles post-surgery and rehabilitation.
6. Is surgery always necessary for hand, wrist, or elbow issues?
   Not always. Non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy, medication, and splints are often the first steps. However, consulting a hand surgeon ensures accurate diagnosis and the best treatment path.
7. . How do I know if I should see a hand surgery specialist?
   If you experience persistent symptoms like pain, weakness, numbness, deformities, or injuries affecting hand use, it’s best to consult a specialized hand surgeon for timely and appropriate care.

About Author