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surgery

What are the Symptoms of an ACL Injury?

by allurewellness February 2, 2017

written by allurewellness

An ACL injury or a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury is considered one of the most common (not to mention one of the most painful) injuries anyone can have.

The injury often occurs in individuals who are engaged in sports that entail frequent jumping or running, causing stress and strain to the ligament.

This type of injury is often considered one of the most painful because it involves the knees, one of the parts of the body that has the most nerves.

What is the ACL?

The anterior cruciate ligament or ACL is one of the four major ligaments found in the knee.

It is located in the knee’s middle and it prevents the shin bone from sliding in the front of the thigh bone.

The four ligaments situated in the knees provide the stability the knees need in order to work properly.

When forced or extended beyond their capabilities, these ligaments will be subjected to stress and strain and might tear or rupture.

What are the common symptoms of an ACL injury?

Typically, a torn ACL has 4 common symptoms.

It must be noted that this type of injury may require both surgery and prompt rehabilitation.

The most typical symptoms include:

A pop or a popping sound during the injury. This popping or pop is often very distinct.
An onset of intense pain. The pain associated with ACL injuries are often described as searing or burning.
The first few hours after the injury, intense swelling might manifest around the area that is injured.
Straightening or bending the knee might cause tightness and pain. Attempting to move the knee in any direction may also result to excruciating pain.

There are certain injuries however that will manifest some of the same symptoms of an ACL injury.

Some of these conditions or injuries include bone breakage, injuries to the knee cushions, and injuries to other parts of the knee like the ligaments.

A torn ACL has 4 common symptoms

What is chronic ACL deficiency?

The condition occurs when the joints of the knee becomes chronically unstable.

When this happens, the knees would give in to the pressure and give out.

Pain and inflammation may also manifest and movement will become very uncomfortable and challenging.

While not all who has an ACL injury might develop this deficiency, those who have had a history have a higher chance of developing the condition.

In cases where ACL injuries evolve into recurrent and lifelong ACL deficiency, the affected individual will experience inflammation and pain in the affected area especially when the knee gives out or buckles.

To increase your chances of keeping ACL deficiency at bay, it is important to ensure proper rehabilitation and restored function is observed prior to commencing with the performance of routine activities.

Sans thorough rehabilitation and restored function, an ACL deficiency has a huge chance of occurring.

Eventually, some cases of ACL deficiency can lead to osteoarthritis—another condition that affects the joints and the bones. To know more about osteoarthritis, click here.

While ACL injuries can be prevented, it is sometimes inevitable especially in people involved in rigorous sports.

To prevent any complications, it is important to check with your doctor right away so proper treatment and rehabilitation can be administered. Visit www.bjios.sg right away to know more.

February 2, 2017 0 comments

Trigger Finger: Management and Treatment

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger occurs when one of the fingers remains stuck in a bent position.

Depending on the condition’s severity, injections, noninvasive treatments, medications, and trigger finger surgery might be recommended.

What are the common causes of trigger finger?

Trigger finger can be attributed to repetitive or forceful use of the finger or thumb.

Other medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can also cause the condition to develop.

Grasping something firmly (a power tool, for instance) for long periods might also lead to trigger finger.

Who are at risk?

Industrial workers, farmers, musicians and those whose job or hobbies will entail repeated finger and thumb movements are considered highly susceptible.

Smokers are also at risk of developing the condition because of their repeated lighter use.

Trigger finger is also common in individuals aged 40 to 60.

What are the common symptoms of trigger finger?

Typical symptoms of trigger finger include the following:

Stiffness of the affected finger (especially in the mornings)
Soreness (at the thumb’s or finger’s base)
Painful clicking or snapping when the finger is straightened or bent
Finger or thumb locks in a bent or straight position

How is trigger finger diagnosed?

In order to diagnose the condition, physical examination of the hands and the fingers is done.

In some cases, swelling will manifest in the affected finger and a noticeable bump over the joint of the palm will appear.

The affected finger can also stay locked in a bent position and may become stiff and very painful.

X-rays and lab tests are not required in order to diagnose the condition.

What are the common risk factors?

Repeated Gripping

Individuals whose occupations and hobbies entail repetitive or prolonged gripping are more likely to develop the condition.

Sex

The condition is more common in women.

Other medical conditions

People suffering from diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk.

Effective management and therapies for trigger finger: Learn about treatments to relieve pain and regain finger mobility.

What are the possible treatment options?

Noninvasive treatment alternatives

Heat or Ice

Some patients notice significant improvement when icing their palms numerous times daily.

Others on the other hand find warm water soaks first thing in the morning more helpful.

Splint

Wearing splints at night are sometime recommended to ensure the affected finger stays in the extended position.

Aside from helping guarantee the finger does not curl when sleeping, splints can also help the tendon rest.

Stretching Exercises

To ensure finger mobility is maintained, gentle exercises might be recommended.

Surgical procedure and other treatment alternatives

If the symptoms are severe and the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatments, the following treatment options will be likely recommended:

Steroid Injection

To reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to freely move, a steroid medication is injected into the tendon sheath.

Steroid injection is a very common and popular treatment alternative because it has a 90 percent effectivity rate.

This option however is not recommended for patients with diabetes.

Percutaneous Release

This procedure will entail that the patient’s palm is numbed before a sturdy needle is inserted.

The needle is inserted into the tissue around the tissue that is affected.

When the finger and the tendon are moved, the constriction blocking the smooth motion and movement of the tendon will be resolved.

Surgery

Trigger finger surgery is often carried out in the operating room.

A small incision is made near the base of the affected finger.

From there, the surgeon can easily cut open the portion of the tendon sheath that is constricted.

How long is the likely recovery period after the surgery?

Recovery time will depend on the condition’s severity.

In some cases, the treatment of choice can also affect the length of the recovery period.

For instance, splinting may require at least 6 weeks.

In most cases however, patients will recover within a few weeks with anti-inflammatory medications and rest.

If you need help in the management and treatment of trigger finger, go to www.bjios.sg right now.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body health

Different Types of Physiotherapy Treatments

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

The healthcare profession that diagnosis and treats patients with difficulties doing functional activities is called physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy is also known as physical therapy in other countries.

What are the primary goals of physiotherapy?

Maintain independence of movement
Alleviate pain
Enhance physical performance
Prevent and manage impairments and disabilities
Significantly improve the patient’s quality of life
Achieve highest function possible
Enhance health and overall wellness

When is physiotherapy used?

Physiotherapy has proven helpful for individuals of all ages suffering from different health issues, including those that affect the:

Heart and circulation

Rehabilitation after a heart attack

Breathing and lungs

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis

Soft tissues, bones, and joints

Back, neck, and shoulder pains and sport injuries

Brain and the nervous system

Movement difficulties that result from stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease.

What are the various kinds of physiotherapy treatments?

Heat Therapy

Applying heat can expedite healing by enhancing the blood flow to the injury site.

Heat therapy has also been known to help in effectively softening tight tissues and alleviating pain.

Some of the common heating modalities and devices include:

Paraffin wax bath
Ultrasound
Diathermy
Hot packs
Infrared heat

Cold Therapy or Cryotherapy

Proven effective in minimizing swelling and pain, this physiotherapy intervention is often the treatment of choice for acute injuries.

It is also employed after a deep kneading massage or DKM.

Classic examples of cold therapy include ice pack application and ice massage.

Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises

To maintain and enhance joint flexibility and to reduce stiffness, ROM exercises are considered ideal.

Common range of motion exercises include:

Passive Range of Motion (PROM) exercises
Active Range of Motion (AROM) exercises
Active Assistive Range of Motion (AAROM) exercises

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

This type of electrical stimulation uses a small battery-powered device.

It works by sending low current throught the electrodes that are placed on the skin’s surface.

Contrary to what is popularly believed, a TENS device will not cause the muscles to contract.

However, while effective when it comes to relieving pain, the relief it offers is often only temporary.

Soft Tissue Mobilization

Also known as therapeutic massage, soft tissue mobilization is often used as part of physiotherapy treatment.

Therapeutic massages have been proven to reduce pain, relax tight muscles, and minimize swelling.

Other prevalent physiotherapy treatments include:

Joint mobilization
Traction
Bandaging
Ergonomic training
Assistive device training
Fitting of Orthosis
Taping

Different Types of Physiotherapy Treatments

What are some conditions and injuries that can benefit from physiotherapy?

Tendonitis

This condition occurs when the tendons become inflamed and irritated.

Tendonitis is often attributed to overstretching, overuse, and repetitive movements.

Tendonitis can also be acute or chronic.

If tendonitis does not respond to home-care remedies, the following treatment options might be prescribed.

Steroid injection
Ultrasound
Physiotherapy
Supportive brace or strap

ACL Tear

ACL tear occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL (situated within the knee joint) becomes partially or completely torn.

ACL tears are very common in athletes involved in highly competitive and intense sports like football, rugby, soccer, and basketball.

Depending on the severity of the condition, any or a combination of the following physiotherapy interventions might be recommended:

Joint mobilization
Range of motion (ROM) exercises
TENS
Ice pack or heat application

Wrist Sprain

Wrist sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the wrist bones gets injured.

The injury is often attributed to overstretching of the ligaments or forceful bending.

Telltale indicators of the condition include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness.

Wrist sprain interventions include the following:

TENS
Ice or heat packs
Exercises
Ultrasound therapy

Essentially, the physiotherapy treatment that will be prescribed will be based on the symptoms, recovery stage, injury severity, and the patient’s overall goals.

To know more, visit www.bjios.sg right now!

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury

Common Orthopaedic Problems in Childhood

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

The specialty that treats bone defects that are genetic-related, acquired, and those that develop during gestation is called pediatric orthopaedics.

Children with developmental and musculosketal conditions as well as those with congenital bone diseases will need the expert help of pediatric orthopaedics specialists.

Orthopaedic conditions are very common among children.

These conditions are classified as developmental, congenital, or acquired.

Some of the most common pediatric orthopaedic disorders are:

Legs

Bow-legged (Genu varum)

Genu varum can be attributed to a posterior hip capsule that is tight.

The condition will often get resolved once the child turns 2 years old.

In severe cases however, splinting at night is recommended.

Internal tibial torsion

This condition is deemed the most probable cause of in-toeing in children that are aged 2 years and below.

Fortunately, the condition is resolved (even without treatment) once the child starts to walk.

Leg length discrepancy

This condition is often attributed to growth asymmetry.

Treatment approaches can include surgical correction of the longer or shorter leg and inhibition of growth of the longer leg.

Foot

Pes cavus

Pes cavus results to a high arch adn in most cases, does not respond to weight-bearing.

Depending on the condition’s severity, treatment alternatives can include physical therapy, orthotics, and surgery.

Talipes equinovarus

This condition is also known as club foot.

It pertains to the various abnormalities in the tibia, fibula, and the bones.

Likely remedies can include splinting, casting, and manipulation.

In cases that are severe, surgery might be recommended.

Planovalgus deformity

While considered common, this condition is often associated with cerebral palsy.

For ambulatory children with deformities that are mild to moderate in nature, calcaneal lengthening is the likely option.

For children that are non-ambulatory, the relapse rate is high so surgery might not be of much benefit.

Toes

Ingrowing toenail

When the nail’s edge will grow into the surrounding tissues, ingrowing toenail develops.

Treatment options for the condition can range from warm soaks to taking antibiotics.

Severe cases however will already require surgery.

Curly toes

Curly toes often affect the fourth and the fifth toes.

Curly toes can be inherited or bilateral.

Fortunately, at least 25 to 50 percent of the cases get resolved when the child turns 3 to 4 years of age.

Otherwise, surgery would be the likely treatment approach.

Common Orthopaedic Problems in Childhood

Knee

Discoid lateral meniscus

The term refers to the congenital malformation of the lateral meniscus.

If the condition causes the child discomfort, arthroscopic repair might be recommended.

Patellar subluxation and dislocation

This congenital condition often responds well to immobilization.

In chronic cases however, surgery might be necessary.

Osteochrondritis dissecans

Treatment option for this condition can range from immobilization, NSAIDs, and surgery.

Chrondrocyte transplantation has also become one of the likely alternatives recently.

Spine

Spondylolisthesis

When a vertebra slips forward on the vertebra situated below it, this condition occurs.

Physical therapy and NSAIDs are often given as first treatment resorts.

Severe cases of the condition however might need posterior spinal fusion.

Intravenous treatment (often followed by oral antibiotics) is also often prescribed.

Discitis

This condition is deemed uncommon in children.

Back pain, lumbar lordosis loss, and the inability of the patient to flex the lower back are considered some of the condition’s clinical features.

Hip

Slipped capital femoral epiphyses

When the femoral head slips posteriorly, this condition occurs.

The condition is also very common among obese and rapidly growing children aged 12 to 15.

Management of the condition often includes surgical hip pinning.

Transient monoarticular synovitis

This condition will often result to limping and develops after a respiratory infection.

Effective treatment options include rest, physiotherapy, and NSAIDs.

Orthopaedic disorders in children have different treatment interventions. To know what the best treatment route is for your child, visit www.bjios.sg right now.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury

Osteoarthritis: What You Need to Know

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

While there are different types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is deemed the most common.

Affecting millions of people the world over, osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage situated at the bones’ end breaks down.

Although the condition can damage possibly any joint found in the body, it often affects the joints found in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Fortunately, symptoms of osteoarthritis can be effectively managed.

However, the underlying process is no longer reversible.

Common Symptoms

Below are some of the most common indicators of osteoarthritis:

Pain – joint pain is felt during and after movements.
Tenderness – tenderness in the joint is felt even if only a slight pressure is applied.
Stiffness – stiffness in the joint is especially noticeable especially when sedentary for long periods or when waking up in the morning.
Grating sensation – grating sensation are felt or heard when the affected joint is used.
Bone spurs – extra bits of bones that feel like hard lumps when touched will form around the joint affected.

Osteoarthritis Management

Below are some of the known effective ways to manage the condition.

There are two simple yet highly effective ways to protect the joints. And both don’t even need a prescription.

Exercise regularly.

Integrating regular exercise in your daily routine will not only help patients maintain a healthy weight, it is also highly beneficial for the joints.

Thankfully, there’s no shortage of exercise options available that can help strengthen the muscles of the joints.

Hiking, yoga, biking, and swimming are just some of the exercise alternatives that are easy on the body but can effectively strengthen the muscles at the same time.

Lose the excess weight.

Getting rid of the extra pounds will not only help you avoid a vast range of medical conditions, it can also efficiently take stress and strain off the joints.

Also, while no such thing as an “osteoarthritis diet” has been created yet, as a general rule of thumb, eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean meat are highly recommended.

What You Need to Know About Osteoarthritis

Treatment Options

Topical Creams

Creams and gels that help with osteoarthritis can be rubbed on the affected joint.

Some of the known effective topical options include:

Diclofenac – for NSAIDs that come in topical form, Diclofenac is a classic example. However, this topical alternative cannot be purchased sans prescription. In addition, liver function will have to be monitored for at least 4 to 6 weeks from the time treatment started to resolve any possible side effects the soonest possible time.
Capsaicin – this cream is considered highly effective in relieving pain brought about by osteoarthritis. Capsaicin works by hindering the release of substance P—the one tasked to transmit pain sensation.
Other products containing eucalyptus, camphor, and menthol have also been proven to help ease pain brought about by the condition.

Medications

People suffering from osteoarthritis are typically given nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs to help ease the pain.

Classic examples of NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

The aforementioned medications can often be purchased without a prescription.

However, stronger NSAIDs will require a prescription.

For best results, it is recommended that you check with your doctor first rather than self-medicate.

NSAIDs can have unwanted side effects like increased risk for cardiovascular issues (i.e. heart attacks and strokes) and may sometimes cause stomach bleeding.

Surgery

Fortunately, it is reassuring to note that most osteoarthritis cases do not require surgery.

However, once the stiffness and pain becomes unbearable, surgery will most likely be recommended.

The good thing is surgery will not only effectively relieve the pain but will also help effectively improve joint alignment and enhance joint movement.

You may already be suffering from osteoarthritis but oblivious to it. If you notice classic osteoarthritis symptoms, visit www.bjios.sg right away for expert help on the management of the condition.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury

Ways to Prevent Common Running Injuries

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Without doubt, running comes with incomparable benefits many people don’t want to miss out on.

However, while highly beneficial, running can also cause injuries that will require a visit to orthopaedic specialists for those who are not careful.

Statistics indicate that at least 80 percent of runners get injured annually.

Most of the injuries runners suffer from can be attributed to training changes, weak hips, and overuse, among other things.

Below are some of the most prevalent running injuries that plague runners, the possible culprits, preventive measures, and the likely treatment options available:

Ankle Sprain

When the ligament is stretched beyond its limit, a sprain occurs.

Oftentimes, ankle sprains occur when the ankle rolls in or outward.

Curbs, tree branches, potholes, and at times, an unfortunate landing can result to ankle sprain.

Recovering from ankle sprain can take some time but performing balance exercises (i.e. single-legged squats) are recommended to help strengthen the muscles while recovering.

Getting ample rest is also highly recommended.

Depending on the condition’s severity, scheduling an appointment with orthopaedic specialists might be required so an effective and more specific treatment plan is created.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome or ITBS occurs when the Iliotibial band (the thick tendon that stretches from the pelvic bone to the thigh) becomes swollen.

Weak hips, increased mileage, and downhill running are often the likely culprits.

To significantly reduce the pain, it would be a good idea to show the muscles some love.

For starters, do specific stretches and foam rolling to help minimize the pain and the inflammation.

Different Ways to Prevent Common Running Injuries

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tissues that connect the heel to the lower leg muscles become swollen.

The condition can be attributed to a lot of factors—naturally flat food, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, drastic mileage increase, to name a few.

To ensure Achilles tendinitis is kept at bay, stretching the calf muscles before and after working out is recommended.

Also, when possible, refrain from doing hill climbs as it can put unwanted strain and stress on the tendons.

Anti-inflammatories, stretching, and the R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) technique can help affected runners get right back on track in no time.

Patellar Tendinitis

Otherwise known as “jumper’s knee,” patellar tendinitis is very common among distance runners.

Patellar tendinitis occurs when tiny tears in the patellar tendon will manifest as a result of overuse.

Common causes of the condition include overpronation, too many hill repeats, and over-training.

To help reduce the risk of developing the condition, strengthening the hamstrings and quads is recommended.

To ease the pain, putting ice on the affected knee will help significantly.

To help soothe and strengthen the tendon, physical therapy might be prescribed.

Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome is often characterized by tender pain around or behind the knee cap.

Runner’s knee can be attributed to several factors including downhill running, weak hips, muscle imbalance, and repetitive pavement pounds during runs.

In order to avoid runner’s knee, running only on flat or soft surfaces is recommended.

However, for those who already have runner’s knee, taping or bracing the knee might be prescribed.

Taking anti-inflammatory drugs or reducing your mileage are other options you can look into.

Shin Splints

For those who have been running for quite some time, they have likely encountered shin splints at one point or another.

Often characterized by aching and stabbing sensation, the condition occurs when the muscles and tendons covering the shinbone becomes swollen.

Icing the affected area (for at least 15 to 20 minutes) has been proven to help reduce both the swelling and the pain.

Elevating the leg affected may also help.

Prevention of shin splints is considered tricky, but researchers discovered that shock-absorbing insoles can help as it can provide the support to the arch.

Keep running injuries at bay and effectively manage any running injuries you have by heading to www.bjios.sg now!

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body surgery

Orthopaedic Hand Surgeries: What are the Different Kinds?

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

While taken for granted most of the time, the significance of the human hands cannot be overlooked.

Activities considered routine—writing, eating, working, creating art, dressing, etc.—can become extra challenging, if not impossible to perform without functioning hands.

Unfortunately, many hand problems occur as a result of trauma, injuries, and overuse.

Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment alternatives can range from noninvasive options to orthopaedic hand surgery.

Carpal Tunnel Release

When pressure is placed on the median nerve, carpal tunnel syndrome is likely to develop.

The condition is characterized by numbness and tingling in the hand.

In some cases, the symptoms will manifest during prolonged gripping or when positioned upright.

Treatment options can range from wearing of splint (to help give the wrist some rest) to steroid injections (to reduce swelling) to orthopaedic hand surgery.

Orthopaedic hand surgery however becomes the recommended option if the condition does not respond to other noninvasive treatment options.

After the surgery, the hand bandage will remain for at least a week or two.

Stitches however will be removed after 10 to 14 days.

Patients are most likely able to use the thumb and the fingers by then.

While performing heavy tasks will not be recommended, moving the fingers every now and then is advised.

This is done to help guarantee the tendons and the nerves do not get caught up in any scar tissue that will sometimes form after the surgery.

Trapeziectomy

The bone located in the wrist at the thumb’s base is called the trapezium.

When the joint situated there becomes afflicted with arthritis, it can result to excruciating pain and can make even the simplest of task difficult to carry out.

While the pain can eventually disappear, surgery to remove the joint and the trapezium might be advised if the pain persists.

Post-surgery, wearing a splint for at least six weeks will most likely be recommended.

Exercises to help regain hand strength and movement might also be taught.

Dupuytren’s Contracture Fasciectomy

This condition is characterized by tissues that form in the palm of the hands and the fingers.

While sometimes painless and only causes skin nodules, it can also form bands that might result to curling of the fingers.

When curling of the fingers occur, surgery will be required to release the fingers and to remove the tissue.

The surgery will often take only a day and staying in the hospital will not be required.

The skin will often heal 2 to 3 weeks after the surgery.

However, before full use of the hand becomes possible, patient will have to wait for at least 12 weeks.

In majority of the cases, hand exercises will be recommended.

A hand therapist will also need to monitor closely the hand’s function and movement.

Also, while a night extension splint will be beneficial in some cases, it is not often required.

What are the Different Kinds of Orthopaedic Hand Surgeries: ?

Tendon Repair

Tendons can sometimes tear or snap.

When tendon tears or snaps occur, the condition is called tendon rupture.

While not very common, tendon ruptures can be attributed to rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis.

To heal completely, repaired tendons will need at least six weeks.

To protect the tendons while asleep, wearing a hand splint would be recommended.

Fortunately, patients can look forward to enjoying full hand recovery in just two to three months.

Knuckle (MCP Joint) Replacement

Also known as rheumatoid arthritis of the knuckles, metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint can significantly reduce hand function aside from being very painful.

Patients will often experience difficulty using the hand when the develop occurs.

When this happens, orthopaedic hand surgery is often carried out.

During the surgery, the knuckles will be replaced by small artificial joints that will also act as hinges.

Fortunately, the surgery will not only reduce the pain but it will also vastly improve the affected hand’s function.

After the surgery, a few days of rest will be needed before rehabilitation starts.

Exercises to move the fingers will be recommended and wearing a splint at least for several weeks will be required.

If you are a candidate for orthopaedic hand surgery, discover the options available for you at www.bjios.sg.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body surgery

Minimally Invasive Surgery: What are the Benefits?

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Also known as laparoscopic surgery, MIS or minimally invasive surgery is a surgical procedure that uses small incisions where miniscule cameras with microscopes and tiny fiber-optic lights are inserted.

Minimally invasive surgery makes it possible for patients to recover faster with less scarring and blood loss compared to traditional invasive procedures.

Nowadays, less invasive approaches are becoming the treatment option of choice for many patients.

This is not exactly surprising as minimally invasive surgery offers incomparable benefits compared to traditional “open” surgery.

Some of the benefits of minimally invasive procedures include:

Increased Safety

Since the incisions that will be made are minimal, there is also less trauma and blood loss.

Reduced Scarring

Incisions made in minimally invasive procedures will often only take a stitch or two to close.

Lower Infection Risk

Since the procedure is less invasive, the risk of infection is also relatively lower.

Scarring and pain are also minimal.

Shorter Recovery Period

Typically, recovery period from traditional surgery will take six to eight weeks.

With minimally invasive procedures however, recovery period can only be as short as two weeks.

Reduced Hospital Stay

Most patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery are not required to stay in the hospital and are discharged in a few hours.

Experience the benefits of minimally invasive surgery: faster recovery, smaller incisions, and less pain for improved health.

Common MIS Procedures

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Laparoscopic myomectomy is the surgical removal of the myomas or uterine fibroids.

Pedunculated myomas and subserous (close to the surface) are often easily removed laparoscopically.

In most cases however, uterine fibroids don’t need to be removed.

However, if it already causes pain, abnormal bleeding, and pressure, laparoscopic myomectomy becomes the recommended treatment option.

Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH)

The process of disconnecting the uterus (and other structures) using laparoscopes is called total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Patients who have undergone the procedure will be made to stay in the hospital for at least a couple of days.

Resting for a maximum of two weeks will also be required.

For women who would need to undergo hysterectomy, TLC is deemed the least painful and least debilitating option available.

Endometriosis Treatment

Laparoscopy is considered the most common procedure carried out when diagnosing and removing mild to moderate cases of endometriosis.

The procedure is carried out by inserting a lighted viewing instrument (otherwise known as a laparoscope) in the small incision.

When necessary, one or two more small incisions will be made where other necessary surgical instruments will be inserted.

Laparoscopic endometriosis is also performed when scar tissue that will cause pain and infertility or visible endometriosis implants need removal.

Preparation

Pre-Surgery

The night before the procedure, washing the surgical site with mild soap is recommended.

Patients should also refrain from ingesting alcohol the night prior to the schedule of the procedure.

When needed, you will be given appropriate directions by your doctor regarding bowel preparation.

On the day of the procedure itself, refrain from using moisturizers, creams, lotions, and make-up.

In addition, it is likely that you will be asked to abstain from drinking and eating after midnight.

To play safe, it would be a wise thing to ask for a list of things to do and things to steer clear of from your physician.

Make sure you strictly adhere to all the instructions in your list.

Post-Surgery

After the procedure, patients will have to spend at least two or three hours in the recovery room.

Pain medications and antibiotics will also be given.

Length of stay in the hospital will often vary depending on the procedure done.

In most cases however, a few days of hospital stay will suffice.

Upon discharge, pain medications as well as other prescriptions will likely be given.

Get a more thorough understanding of minimally invasive surgery and its incomparable benefits by heading to www.bjios.sg today!

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury surgery

Certain Microsurgery Facts To Keep In Mind Of

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Surgery performed on very small structures like the blood vessels and the nerves utilizing specialized equipment is called microsurgery.

Microsurgical procedures are performed using techniques that have been used since the early part of the twentieth century.

Some of the techniques used include blood vessel repair and organ transplantation.

Numerous other surgical specialties also make use of the techniques used in microsurgery.

Case in point: otolaryngologists perform microsurgery when doing work on the inner ear or the delicate and small structures of the vocal cord.

Plastic surgeons also employ microsurgical techniques during reconstruction of damaged or disfigured tissues, muscles, or skin or when transplanting tissues from the patient’s body.

Equipment

Microscope

Operating microscopes used in microsurgery may vary depending on their use.

However, they have and share a few standard features.

Microscopes can be floor or ceiling mounted and comes with a movable arm.

The movable arm will ensure manipulation of the microscope’s position is possible and effortless.

Operating microscopes also come with a high intensity light source.

It also comes equipped with a set of lenses designed to make viewing the surgical site possible and convenient.

The rest of the surgical team will get a visual of the operating field through a video camera.

Typically, the magnification required for microsurgery is five to forty times (5–40x) magnification.

Higher magnifications however are required by surgeons when performing microsurgical repair.

Lower magnifications are ideal when identifying and exposing structures.

Instruments

Instruments that are used in microsurgery have been designed to make manipulation of delicate structures (read: barely visible to the naked eye) possible.

The instruments are also equipped with handles that are large enough so the users can hold them comfortably and securely.

Some of the instruments used in microsurgery include:

Vessel dilators
Scissors
Forceps
Vascular clamps
Irrigators
Needle holders
Clamp applicators

Suture Materials

Suturing or stitching in microsurgery is done using specialized needles and threads.

The diameter or gauge of the suture threads will vary and will depend on the procedure performed.

It will also depend on the tissue that will be sutured.

Suture threads can be synthetic (made of polyester, nylon, wire, and other man-made materials) or natural (made of silk, linen, gut, and other materials).

It can also be absorbable (will break down after a specific period) or non-absorbable (will retain its strength for an indefinite period).

Needles used in suturing also comes in a variety of sizes, point types, and shapes.

Akin to the suture thread, the needle type used in microsurgery will also depend on the tissue that needs suturing as well as the procedure performed.

In essence, numerous reconstructive procedures that are difficult to carry out when done conventionally are made possible through microsurgery.

Microsurgery Facts To Keep In Mind Of

Some of the most common microsurgical procedures performed are:

Free-tissue transfers

Also known as free flaps, free-tissue transfers are often the option when reconstructing tissues that have been damaged and cannot be treated through skin grafts.

Removed tissues due to treatment or cancer or tissues that have been constricted after a burn can benefit from free-tissue transfers.

Tissues that can be transferred through microsurgical techniques include skin, bone, muscle, intestine, and fat.

Replantation

Replantation is considered an emergency surgery and is carried out to reattach an amputated body part (i.e. finger, arm, or foot).

Replantation is a procedure that adheres to a series of time and energy intensive steps during the reattachment of the structures.

For instance, when a bone is cut, it must be shortened slightly so that the blood vessels and the nerves can be reattached without any tension.

Transplantation

In some cases, a body part that has been amputated can no longer be reattached, or the tissue has become deformed secondary to injury or congenital defect.

In similar scenarios, transplantation is often the recommended option.

Discover more about microsurgery at www.bjios.sg.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury surgery

Limb Salvage Surgery Overview

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

The surgery done to remove cancers and soft tissue in the limbs is known as limb salvage surgery.

Limb salvage surgery is also often carried out to avoid amputation.

What are the primary aims of the procedure?

The following are some of the key goals of limb salvage surgery:

Prevent amputation
Cancer removal
Preserving the patient’s appearance
Ensuring the highest possible degree of function in the affected limb is preserved

Otherwise known as limb-sparing surgery, limb salvage surgery entails removal of the cancer and at the very least an inch of the surrounding healthy tissues.

Limb salvage surgery has three stages:

Cancer removal and a margin of the surrounding healthy tissue.
Bone graft or prosthesis implant when necessary.
Closing of the wound by transferring soft tissue or muscle from other body parts to the surgical site.

Many years prior, the standard treatment approach of patients with cancer in the limb often includes amputation of the extremity affected.

Thankfully, today, amputation does not have to be the only option.

With significant improvements in surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and imaging methods, amputation is no longer the only alternative.

In recent years, limb-sparing surgery has also become the treatment route for those patients with bone diseases, chronic degenerative joint diseases, acute or chronic limb wounds, and those patients who are considered candidates for diabetic limb amputation.

What are the preparations before the procedure?

Before going for surgery, some preparational procedures are taken

Before doctors will decide if limb salvage surgery is indeed the best option, key factors are taken into consideration.

Some of the primary factors include:

Size of the tumor
Location of the tumor
The type of cancer
The age of the patient
The condition’s progression
The overall health of the patient

Once the doctors decide that limb salvage surgery is the best option, patient will be given information and insight as to the likely outcome.

Patients will also be advised that in the event of any implant failure, additional surgery might be required and even amputation might become an option.

Physical and occupational therapists will prepare the patient for surgery by introducing range of motion, muscle-strengthening, and ambulation exercises they need to perform after the surgery.

What are some of the surgical techniques employed?

Bone Tumor

The lesion that is malignant and at least a cuff of healthy tissue is removed when treating low-grade bone tumors and some of its components.

However, when treating high-grade tumors, muscles, bones, and other tissues affected are removed.

Soft Tissue Sarcomas

A staggering 80 percent of soft tissue sarcomas affecting the extremities are treated with limb-sparing surgery.

During the procedure, the tumor, lymph nodes, as well as the cancerous tissues are removed.

At least 2.54 cm of the surrounding healthy tissues are also removed.

Radiation and chemotherapy may be administered before or after the procedure.

Radiation may also be administered during the procedure itself.

It is carried out by utilizing a special application that will be placed against the surface where the tumor is removed.

Tubes containing radioactive pellets will then be inserted.

The tubes will have to stay in place during the procedure and will only be removed after a few days.

What are the recommended aftercare regimen after the surgery?

Patients will often remain in the hospital for at least 5 to 10 days after the surgery.

Sensation and blood flow in the affected extremity will be monitored closely.

Nurses will also check for signs of deep-vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics will also be prescribed the first 48 hours after the surgery.

To prevent blood clots from forming, antiembolism stockings and medications (prophylactic anticoagulants) will be provided.

If you want to know more about limb salvage surgery, visit www.bjios.sg right away.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

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