Replantation of digits
Definition
Replantation of digits is surgery to repair completely amputated fingers or toes.
Alternative Names
Revascularization of amputated digits; Reattachment of amputated fingers
Description
The patient is sedated using regional or general anesthesia. The bone ends may be shortened to remove tension on the repaired blood vessels. The finger or toe is put in place and the bone is stabilized with wires or a plate and screws. Tendon repairs are done next.
The nerves and vessels are then repaired with special surgical instruments. This part of the surgery is most critical to its success. The skin is then closed. A bulky dressing is applied.
Young children may need to wear a cast to protect the area from injury.
With an incomplete amputation, part of the digit stays attached to the body by skin, artery, vein, or nerve. A process called revascularization is used to reattach the rest of the digit.
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia include the following:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Death of the replanted tissue
- Reduced nerve or movement function in the replanted digit
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, MD, MS, Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
