Specialized Surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals Allows Patient to Regain Use of His Hand
The Center for Hand Surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst gave patient Harry Perks something he had not had in 10 years: use of his right hand
Dec 04, 2024
Harry Perks was unable to use his right hand for 10 years, the result of a drug overdose that had deprived his brain of oxygen for three and a half minutes. His hand was stuck in a bent position, a condition called spasticity. He was unable to feed, bathe, or dress himself, and it was difficult to grip his walker. Perks had already undergone physical and occupational therapy, as well as a series of Botox injections at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull that improved mobility in his left hand and lower extremities, but his right hand remained unchanged.
“I thought Harry was a great candidate for surgery because he was mentally tough, he wanted to get better and had amazing family support,” said Eitan Melamed, MD, Chief of Hand Surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst.
In February, Perks underwent a selective neurectomy combined with tendon lengthening surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. The 3-hour procedure involves cutting nerve branches that contribute to the uncoordinated motion and excess tone of the contracted muscles, diminishing these abnormalities and improving overall function. In addition, contracted muscles were lengthened, allowing the wrist to straighten.
After the surgery and months of occupational therapy, Perks can now shower, dress and feed himself. He can also use his laptop, which keeps him connected to his friends and the world.
“The doctor helped me. He changed my life,” said patient Harry Perks, Jr.
“When we first saw Dr. Melamed, and he told us he could fix Harry’s hand, we were in shock, we couldn’t believe it. Now, Harry’s confidence is back, and he’s so independent. For us, it’s truly a miracle,” said Harry Perks, Sr., the patient’s father.
“I’m very excited to see Harry’s progress,” said Dr. Melamed. “I encourage any patients who have nerve damage and limited movement in their hands to consider surgery. We want to get the word out so we can improve the hand function of people with brain injuries, including stroke.”
NYC Health + Hospitals, through its social work program and extensive housing resources, is now working with the patient to identify suitable housing.
The Center for Hand Surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst offers comprehensive care for treatment of the full spectrum of injuries and ailments affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow, including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, thumb arthritis, and nerve disorders. For more information, call 718-334-2663.
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NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest public health care system in the nation serving more than a million New Yorkers annually in more than 70 patient care locations across the city’s five boroughs. A robust network of outpatient, neighborhood-based primary and specialty care centers anchors care coordination with the system’s trauma centers, nursing homes, post-acute care centers, home care agency, and MetroPlus health plan—all supported by 11 essential hospitals. Its diverse workforce of more than 43,000 employees is uniquely focused on empowering New Yorkers, without exception, to live the healthiest life possible. For more information, visit www.nychealthandhospitals.org and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.