Combined skeletal injuries to the upper limb present complex management problems because they may result in dysfunction of the terminal unit of the upper limb-the hand. This article explores complex patterns of skeletal and soft tissue injuries, including complex soft tissue trauma with closed and open fractures; the floating shoulder, elbow, and forearm; and the role of skeletal fixation in conjunction with the complex fracture patterns. As the functional capacity of the upper limb reflects an integration of all its component parts, a combined approach to skeletal and soft tissue trauma is of fundamental importance in upper limb trauma.