Early management of the mangled upper extremity

SummaryMangling injuries to the upper extremity can be devastating, and the early management of these injuries is critical for the success of the reconstruction. These are universally high energy injuries that will need to be taken to the operating room for effective management. Evaluation begins in the emergency department with assessment of vascularity, categorization of damaged structures and assessment of salvageability. There is no role for conservative treatment of these wounds, and once in the operating room, restoration of blood supply and adequate debridement are critical to the ultimate outcome. Removal of damaged, contaminated and devitalized tissues must occur. The goal of early treatment is to create a clean wound ready for reconstruction as soon as possible. Inadequate debridement will only delay reconstruction to the detriment of the patient.