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Please follow the instructions given to you on discharge 

  • Whether you require splint/occupational therapy.
  • Whether you require Hand therapy and when.
  • Removal of pins and wires following fractures.
  • Change of dressing

N.B. stitches are removed 2 weeks post op unless instructed otherwise.

General advice

  • Do not remove your splint without advice from a specialist
  • Keep the dressing clean and dry until your next appointment
  • When active, keep your arm in a sling unless instructed otherwise
  • When resting, rest your arm on two pillows to help reduce pain and swelling
  • Do not hang your hand down: this is likely to increase pain and swelling, take regular painkillers as prescribed
  • Finish the course of antibiotics given to you
  • Keep your arm elevated in a Bradford sling  

If you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Increased pain
  • Increased swelling
  • Change in colour of the fingertip or hand (blue or white)
  • Bandage or splint too tight
  • Bandage or splint too loose
  • Feverish temperatures
  • Smelly or discharging wound

Contact one of the following:

•    The ward you have been discharged from, via the hospital switchboard on 0300 614 5000
•    The Plastics dressing clinic on 0300 615 3031
•    The Plastics Urgent Care unit on 01753 634569
•    The Plastic surgery trauma coordinator 0300 615 3031
•    The Hand Therapy team on 01753 634033

Go to your local accident and emergency room to be seen by the doctors
Royal Berks         0118 322 5111
Frimley Park        01276 604604
Hillington         01895 279314
St Peters         01932 972000

Contact your GP (General Practitioner) or the NHS 111 service
Your local walk-in Centre can deal with any minor issues, e.g., simple dressings and general advice.
For specialist advice you can email or send photos for triage fhft.plasticsurgentcare@nhs.net

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Plastic surgery service.

About this information

Service:
Plastic surgery

Reference:
T/029

Approval date:
28 April 2026

Review date:
1 April 2029

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.