Healthy and functional hand – the miracle of evolution

Dear Colleagues,

Welcome to the Acta surgery plasticae issue which is all about the problems of damaged, injured or otherwise disabled hands.

Hand, this wonderful miracle of evolution, serves as a symbol of our remarkable ability and ingenuity. This complex mechanism of bones, muscles, tendons and nerves enables us to form, communicate and connect with the world around, stands as a testament to us.

Hand surgery, a discipline of medical science, stands as a testament to our determination to preserve and restore the functionality of this indispensable tool.

Hand surgery, as a specialized field within orthopaedics, surgery and plastic surgery, represents the seamless integration of art and science. In this domain, surgeons possess not only extensive medical knowledge, but also a deep understanding of hand anatomy and biomechanics. The precision and finesse required to conduct intricate procedures on such a small scale demand a high level of skill.

Advancements in technology have played a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of hand surgeons. Additionally, collaborative efforts among surgeons worldwide facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, leading to constant refinement of surgical techniques.

In this issue, you will find articles on hand disease, nerve compression, the importance of classification and measurement, as well as on hand injuries.

There are also posts dedicated to burn trauma, one of the most horrific injuries ever.

Loss of hand function can lead to feelings of helplessness and isolation, impacting both mental and physical well-being.

Nor is hand surgery avoided by the advent of the use of artificial intelligence, especially in the field of gathering and evaluating information.

I wish you to enjoy this journal issue to draw new insights which might help you in your responsible and worthy work.

I would also like to draw attention of those interested in hand surgery to the forthcoming XVII. Congress of the Czech Society of Hand Surgery in Brno which will take place on 12–14 October 2023 at Hotel Maximus Resort in Brno.

The topics of the Congress are Dupuytren's contracture, tendon apparatus reconstruction, PIP contractures, devastating hand injuries, unconventional splinting techniques, children's hand traumatology, microsurgery, finger replantation and, of course, varia. More at www.chirurgieruky2023.cz.

I wish you pleasant reading and hope to meet you in Brno in October.

Alena Schmoranzová, MD