Early help key to hand issues

EARLY treatment is the key to success for new non-surgical treatments of hand conditions, according to Australian Skin Face Body consultant Rafael Acosta-Rojas.
The plastic and hand surgeon has been successfully treating patients non-surgically for conditions such as Dupuytren’s contracture, carpal tunnel and osteoarthritis.
“We’re administering collagenase injections under ultrasound-guided nerve blocks to successfully treat Dupuytren’s disease in a pain-free manner” Mr Acosta-Rojas says.
“It’s a relatively new treatment for adults, assisting with releasing the contracture, giving back improved movement of the finger or fingers.
“There’s no incision and generally in one to two days after the injection the contractures are corrected. Physiotherapy is then undertaken to ensure the best result.
Mr Acosta-Rojas says the earlier that progressive conditions such as Dupuytren’s can be diagnosed, the less likely they are to require an invasive solution.
“It is important to go to your GP and have your condition assessed as soon as symptoms occur.”
Mr Acosta-Rojas commonly treats sports injuries to fingers, the severity of which determines the appropriate treatment.
He gives presentations at medical conferences around the world and works with GPs throughout Victoria to provide patients with the latest techniques and procedures in microsurgery.
Mr Acosta-Rojas, a qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, also has a special interest in reconstruction microsurgery of the breast, including post-cancer reconstruction following mastectomy.
Patients require a referral from their GP for appointments with Mr Acosta-Rojas at Australian Skin Face Body, 50 Western Beach Road
Geelong VIC 3220.