Fracture & Dislocation Surgery in Napa, CA

Hand, wrist, and elbow fractures or dislocations can occur for a variety of reasons. The hands and wrists contain many small bones that could break more easily than others; auto or sports accidents can lead to trauma; and even a trip and fall could result in a fracture or dislocation. When a bone is broken, it can cause a great deal of pain or even tingling, swelling, and the inability to use that limb. At Precision Surgery of Napa Valley, we provide a range of surgical treatment options to treat fractures, dislocation, and arthritis in the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. During treatment, our primary goal is to relieve pain, repair the bone, and help you gain normal function. For more information on how we treat fractures and dislocations, contact our surgery center in Napa, CA to schedule an appointment.

Hand, wrist, elbow, and forearm fractures are all treated differently based on the severity of the break. When we provide any procedure, we aim to do so as minimally invasively as possible. This may involve performing arthroscopic surgery to repair small breaks in the hand. A "clean" break in the forearm could be treated simply with a cast, which may be worn for around 6 – 8 weeks or so. A break in the elbow is a little more complex and could require surgery to reconstruct the ligaments surrounding the bone. When treating a dislocation, we will position the bones back into the proper location before performing any necessary surgical procedures. In some cases, surgery will be required to repair tendons or ligaments. Additionally, we may perform other procedures to treat arthritis, such as total joint replacement.

What is the difference between a fracture and a dislocation?
At first, a fracture and dislocation may seem the same, but they are different. A dislocation occurs when bones within a joint separate, while a fracture is an actual crack or break in the bone.

How long does it take a fractured hand to heal?
The answer to this question really depends on the type of fracture and how it's treated. Generally, though, a fracture in the hand can take anywhere from 3 – 8 weeks.

How should I handle a dislocation?
If you think you have a dislocation, you should seek out medical care as soon as possible. You should not move the joint, as this could cause further damage. Additionally, you should put ice on the injured area in order to reduce swelling.

What can I not do after having a fractured bone repaired?
If you've been treated for a fracture, you should not move the broken bone, as this can cause further damage or delay recovery. You should avoid putting weight on that area as well. Depending on the severity and location of the break and what kind of work you do, we may suggest you take some time off work for a week or more. You should try to sleep on your back with your arm straight (if you can).

If you have recently broken or dislocated your arm, hand, or wrist, it is important to visit an orthopedic surgeon you can trust. The board-certified surgeons at Precision Surgery Center of Napa Valley are highly trained and perform the latest treatment methods using state-of-the-art technology and techniques. We always aim to perform treatments that provide optimal results but also a reduced recovery period when possible. We know a break can make daily life difficult — let us help you set yourself up for proper healing. Contact our Napa, CA surgery center to schedule a consultation.