Name of the Procedure:

Exploration with removal of deep foreign body, forearm or wrist
Also known as: Surgical removal of embedded object in forearm or wrist, Foreign body extraction from forearm or wrist

Summary

This surgical procedure involves locating and removing a foreign object that has penetrated deeply into the forearm or wrist. It is commonly performed when non-surgical methods are unsuccessful or impractical.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of a deeply embedded foreign object, such as glass, metal, or wood, in the forearm or wrist. Its goals are to relieve pain, prevent infections, and restore normal function to the affected area.

Indications

• Presence of a deeply embedded foreign object in the forearm or wrist.
• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, or infection.
• Difficulty moving the wrist or forearm normally.
• Failure of non-surgical removal methods.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for a specified period before the procedure.
• Certain medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or paused.
• Diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, may be required to locate the foreign object accurately.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the surgical site is sterilized.
2. Local or general anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is pain-free.
3. An incision is made near the foreign object's location.
4. Exploration is conducted to precisely locate the object.
5. Specialized instruments are used to carefully remove the object.
6. The incision may be irrigated to prevent infection, then closed with sutures or staples.
7. A dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity and depth of the foreign body.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon (usually a specialist in hand or orthopedic surgery)
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurses or technologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves
• Scarring
• Incomplete removal of the foreign body

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort
• Prevention of infection and further complications
• Restoration of normal function to the affected area
• Immediate improvement or resolution of symptoms

Recovery

• Patients may be prescribed pain relief medications and antibiotics.
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry is crucial.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with any restrictions advised by the surgeon.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical attempts to remove the foreign body (e.g., tweezers, suction devices)
• Watchful waiting if the foreign object is not causing significant symptoms
• Each alternative carries its own risks and benefits and may not be suitable for deeply embedded objects.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel minimal discomfort due to anesthesia during the procedure.
• Post-procedure soreness and mild pain are common but manageable with prescribed medications.
• There may be temporary restrictions on movement and lifting heavy objects to ensure proper healing.