The
London Hand and Wrist Unit specialises in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of all conditions relating to the hand and wrist as well as burn and scar management and therapy, bringing together world class surgeons and therapists who practice at four of London's leading private hospitals, The Wellington, The London Bridge, The Lister and the Portland hospitals. The London Hand & Wrist Unit is recognised internationally as providing expertise and high quality care for all patients, adults and children alike, with conditions affecting the upper limb.
The clinical team
The Unit includes distinguished multi-disciplinary team members from four specialities.
Consultant Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgeons, with specific hand and wrist training, provide the medical and surgical care together with specialised
occupational therapists (OTs) and senior physiotherapists (PTs) providing the rehabilitation services. These therapists are known as Hand Therapists. To ensure the highest quality of care, only specialised and experienced staff will be involved in patient treatment.
There are currently fourteen surgeons who form the surgical team of the London Hand and Wrist Unit.
Scar management and therapy
Following surgery, open wounds or burns, scars are formed as part of the normal healing process. Scars can take many months to mature but eventually fade to a pale colour. During the maturation process scar therapy can make a difference to the cosmetic appearance of the scar and assist healing.
Hand therapists are experienced in the application of all these techniques and can help you make a change to scars that are still immature (have some red / pink colour in them). They will teach you how to manage your scar and discuss the relevant treatment modalities with you.
Massage techniques
Specific massage techniques can help in the maturation process of your scar. Vigorous massage increases the blood supply to the scarred area and prevents the scar sticking to the underlined tissues (tethering) and also to promote healing. This is carried out by the Hand Therapists and also taught to patients for them to carry out independently.
Silicone gels
These are stocked in the department and patients are taught how and when to apply them.
Pressure garments
For larger or more persistent scars, pressure garments can be supplied. These are tailor made lycra body garments for the affected area. They apply a certain pressure to the underlying skin and help, over time, to produce a flatter scar.
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy is particularly useful in the treatment of scars to encourage healing, to reduce pain and to speed healing. The types of electrotherapy available are ultrasound, interferential, shortwave diathermy and laser.
Contact details
For appointments, please telephone the Hand Unit on 020 7483 5090.
You can also fax the department on 020 7586 6410
London Hand and Wrist Unit
The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St. Johns Wood
London NW8 9LE
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