On the TV hit series Grey’s Anatomy, Dr. Alex Karev treats a woman he calls Jane Doe for major injuries to her body and face after she was injured in an explosion. Of course, within episodes her face was reconstructed and she was given a new life with a beautiful new face.
Traumatic injuries are those that occur suddenly and usually as a result of an impact or a collision. Some traumatic injuries such as dog bites, facial fractures of the jaws and cheeks, hand injuries, trauma to the upper and lower extremities and even severe burns require reconstructive surgery.
According to the most recent plastic surgery statistics, the number of reconstructive surgery patients has increased 15% since 2000. While tumor removal and birth defects represent a large portion of all reconstructive procedures, traumatic injuries are also commonly treated with reconstructive surgery.
“The injuries that most people think about when they call them ‘traumatic’ are usually either very serious injuries involving significant tissues, soft tissue, or structural injury,” said Dr. Mark Rusch, PhD, Associate Professor and Rehabilitation Psychologist of the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Plastic Surgery Can Help
Traumatic injuries are usually first treated by emergency room staff members. While at the emergency room, medical staff and family members may deem it necessary to call in a plastic surgeon and other specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
The most common reconstructive procedures used to treat traumatic injuries involve repairing bones, tendons, nerves, and soft tissues—usually to the facial structure, hands, and upper and lower extremities.
Stress on the Patient
So, Jane Doe undergoes reconstructive surgery for her face and body after her traumatic experience. She has a new appearance, but what about the other problems like emotional stress?
Dr. Rusch, who deals with the psychological repercussions of traumatic injuries, believes those who sustain an unexpected injury may feel “very helpless.” In fact, some patients may suffer from some depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, he says.
Even though plastic surgery can help give Jane Doe a new look, it may not be enough to help her accept what happened. The effects of traumatic injury are much too complicated for a single solution.
Interested in learning more about reconstructive surgery? Contact us today to arrange a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near who can help you on your path to recovery.