Nonarterialized Venous Replantation of Part of Amputated Thumb—A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Since the first successful replantation of a human thumb reported by Komatsu and Tamai in 1968, thousands of severed digits and body parts have been successfully salvaged. Restoration of anatomic form and function are the goals of replantation after traumatic tissue amputation. Regardless of anatomic location, methods include microsurgical replantation and nonmicrosurgical replantation, such as composite graft techniques. Numerous techniques to maximize tissue survival after revascularization have been described, including “pocket procedures” to salvage composite grafts, interposition vein grafts, and medicinal leeches to name a few. Artery-to-venous anastomoses have been performed with successful “arterialization” of the distal venous system in fingertip replantation. Although there is documented survival of free venous cutaneous flaps, to our knowledge this is the first report of a replanted composite body part (bone, tendon, soft tissues, and skin) utilizing exclusively multiple, microvascular, nonarterialized venous–venous anastomoses. We present a patient with an isolated band saw fillet amputation to the back of the thumb at the metacarpal–phalangeal joint region, resulting in a composite graft composed of bone, tendon, soft tissue, and skin. The hand wound provided no viable regional arterial inflow source, but there were multiple good caliber superficial veins present. The amputated tissues were replanted and revascularized by using only venous blood flow. The replanted part survival was 100% with excellent function of the digit. We conclude that a hand composite body part involving bone, tendon, soft tissues, and skin can survive replantation with a strict venous blood supply if sufficient good caliber, microvascular, venous–venous anastomoses are performed, granted that arterial inflow options are not available. This is an isolated case, yet introduces a new way of thinking regarding tissue replantation.     

手指多段离断再植的临床研究

目的回顾性分析手指多段离断再植的临床效果。方法对于手指末节、指尖部的断指再植，吻合1条动脉及1条指腹静脉或者吻合1条动脉加拨甲、小切口放血处理，或者行动静脉转流等方法恢复断指血循环；手指中节和近节的离断再植吻合两侧指动脉和2条以上指背静脉，如血管损伤严重，可行浅静脉移植或者邻指动脉移植桥接。结果再植45例81指165段，成活150段，成活率91％。结论手指多段离断再植技术要求高，术中高质量的血管吻合及对血管损伤的有效处理，可以提高断指再植的成活率。加强功能锻炼是再植手指功能恢复的重要环节。     

A Unique Case of Replantation of Previously Replanted Fingers

Replantation of digital amputations is now the accepted standard of care. However, rarely will a replantation surgeon be presented with amputated fingers which have been previously replanted. In our literature search, we could find only one publication where a replanted thumb suffered amputation and was successfully replanted again. We report the technical challenges and the outcome of replanting two fingers which suffered amputation 40 months after the initial replantation and were successfully replanted again. Replantation was critical since the amputated fingers were the only two complete fingers in that hand which had initially suffered a four-finger amputation. The second-time replantation of previously replanted fingers is reported to allay the concern of the reconstructive surgeon when faced with this unique situation of “repeat amputation of the replanted finger.” Second-time replantation is feasible and is associated with high-patient satisfaction. Replantation must be attempted especially in the event of multiple digit amputations.     

Pediatric Digit Replantation Following Traumatic Amputation: Nationwide Analysis of Patient Selection,Outcomes, and Cost

Background: Indications for replantation following traumatic digit amputations are more liberal in the pediatric population than in adults, but delineation of patient selection within pediatrics and their outcomes have yet to be elucidated. This study uses a national pediatric database to evaluate patient characteristics and injury patterns involved in replantation and their outcomes. Methods: The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kid’s Inpatient Database was queried for traumatic amputations of the thumb and finger from 2000 to 2012. Participants were separated into those who underwent replantation and those who underwent amputation. Patients undergoing replantation were further divided into those requiring revision amputation and/or microvascular revision. Patient age, sex, insurance, digit(s) affected, charges, length of stay, and complications were extracted for each patient. Results: Traumatic digit amputations occurred in 3090 patients, with 1950 (63.1%) undergoing revision amputation and 1140 (36.9%) undergoing replantation. Younger patients, those with thumb injuries, females, and those covered under private insurance were significantly more likely to undergo replantation. Cost, length of stay, and in-hospital complications were significantly greater in replantation patients than in those who had undergone amputation. Following replantation, 237 patients (20.8%) underwent revision amputation and 209 (18.3%) underwent vascular revision, after which 58 required revision amputation. Risk of revision following replantation involved older patients, males, and procedures done recently. Conclusions: Pediatric patients who underwent replantation were significantly younger, female, had thumb injuries, and were covered by private insurance. Our findings demonstrate that in addition to injury factors, demographics play a significant role in the decision for finger replantation and its outcomes.     

特殊类型断指再植的治疗

目的探讨特殊类型断指再植的方法和疗效。方法根据末节断指、小儿断指、撕脱性离断断指、多指离断及多段离断断指,采用不同的方法再植。结果共176例再植220指,成活214指,成活率97．27％。术后经2月～6年的随访,按中华医学会手外科学会断指再植功能评定试用标准评定：优125指,良78指,差17指,优良率92．27％。结论特殊类型断指采用合适的方法再植,可获得较高的成活率及较好的外形与功能。     

A retrospective study of functional outcomes after successful replantation versus amputation closure for single fingertip amputations

PURPOSE: To compare the functional outcome of successful microsurgical replantation versus amputation closure for single fingertip amputations. METHODS: Forty-six fingertip amputations in 46 patients (23 were replanted successfully, 23 had amputation closure) were included in this study. Thumb amputations were excluded. Grip strength and active range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint were evaluated. The patients were questioned about their symptoms of pain, paresthesia, and cold intolerance. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire was given and the disability/symptom score was evaluated. Patients' satisfaction with the surgical result was assessed. Time spent in the hospital and time off from work were reviewed. RESULTS: Active range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint was greater in the successful replantation group. Although the existence of paresthesia and cold intolerance were not statistically different between the 2 groups, pain in the affected fingers was more frequent in the amputation closure group. The average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score of the successful replantation group was statistically better. All patients in the successful replantation group were highly or fairly satisfied with the surgical results, whereas 14 patients in the amputation closure group were highly or fairly satisfied. The time spent in the hospital and the time off from work for the successful replantation group were longer. CONCLUSIONS: Successful replantation of single fingertip amputations can result in minimal pain, better functional outcome, better appearance, and higher patient satisfaction. We recommend attempting fingertip replantation not only to obtain the best appearance but also to gain better functional outcome. If the patient requests the simple surgery and earlier return to work amputation closure is an accepted method despite the disadvantage of digital shortening and the risk for a painful stump. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level III.     

Validity of exploration for suitable vessels for replantation in the distal fingertip amputation in early childhood: Replantation or composite graft

Abstract

Composite grafting, grafting without microvascular anastomoses, has been widely performed for distal fingertip amputation in children with variable results, whereas successful replantation of these amputations using microsurgical technique has been reported. However, most of these reports included a wide age-range and a mix of different amputation levels. This study reviewed our cases of paediatric digital amputation, in order to verify the value of distal fingertip replantation over composite grafting, especially in early childhood. Seventeen young children (aged 3 years and 8 months on average), with single-digit fingertip amputations in Tamai zone I were reviewed from 1993–2008. Each amputation was subdivided into three types: distal, middle, and proximal. There were three distal, 13 middle, and one proximal type zone I amputations. All were crush or avulsion injuries. All three distal-type cases were reattached as primary composite grafts with one success. For middle-type cases, the survival rate of primary composite graft without exploration for possible vessels for anastomosis was 57%. On exploration, suitable vessels for anastomosis were found 50% of the time, in which all replantations were succeeded. The remaining cases were reattached as secondary composite grafts, with one success using the pocket method. Consequently, the success rate after exploration was 67%. The only one proximal-type amputation was failed in replantation. For the middle-type zone I amputation in early childhood, replantation has a high success rate if suitable vessels can be found. Therefore, exploration is recommended for amputations at this level with a view to replantation, irrespective of the mechanism of injury.     

Predictors of Hand Function Following Digit Replantation: Quantitative Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Digit replantation affords the opportunity to restore hand function following amputation. To date, however, few studies have evaluated functional outcomes following replantation. Therefore, it was the objective of this study to perform a meta-analysis to better characterize the predictors of hand function. Methods: A literature search was performed using the PubMed database to identify studies that focused on digit amputation/replantation and functional outcomes. Studies were evaluated for patient- and injury-related factors and their respective effects on clinical outcomes of sensation, grip strength, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores. Statistical analysis was conducted across the pooled data set to identify significant trends. Results: Twenty-eight studies representing 618 replanted digits were included in this study. We found the average grip strength was 78.7% (relative to contralateral), the average 2-point discrimination (2PD) was 7.8 mm, and the average DASH score was 12.81. After conducting statistical analysis, we found patients with more proximal injuries had lower grip strength scores (P < .05). We found 2PD scores were influenced by age, mechanism of injury, and amputation level (P < .05). Finally, we found DASH scores after replantation were predicted by mechanism of injury and level of amputation (P < .05). The following variables did not influence outcomes: gender, tobacco use, ischemia time, and digit number. Conclusions: Digit replant does not restore premorbid hand function but does result in adequate hand function. Expected functional outcomes following replant should be considered in the decision-making process. These data can help risk-stratify patients, guide postreplant expectations, and influence the decision for replantation.     

Results of ray resection and amputation for ring avulsion injuries at the proximal interphalangeal joint

We investigated the long-term functional results of ray resection (14 cases) and amputation (nine cases) for ring avulsion injuries of ring finger which could not be replanted or underwent failed replantation. The mean follow-up was 37 (range, 24-63) months in the ray resection group and 32 (range, 24-40) months in the amputation group. Grip strength, key pinch strength, chuck pinch strength, hand circumference and palmar volume were decreased in the ray resection group but only grip strength and pulp pinch strength were significantly decreased in the amputation group. These results suggest that ray resection should be avoided in patients with occupations that need strong key and chuck pinch functions.     

Successful microsurgical replantation of an amputated penis

Traumatic amputation of the penis is a rare condition. The paper presents a 22-year old man who suffered a complete penile amputation in a result of an unfortunate accident. Microsurgical replantation of the penis was performed in the case with a complete return of sensation, sexual function and physiologic miction. Microsurgical replantation is the treatment of choice for this injury.     

Reconstruction of the replanted hand with latissimus dorsi muscle and serratus anterior fascia combined flap

Reconstruction with the latissimus dorsi muscle flap, combined with the serratus anterior fascia flap, was performed to cover two large and separate palmar and dorsal forearm skin defects in a patient, whose hand had been replanted 20 days earlier after traumatic amputation at the distal forearm level. As a result, a total forearm amputation was salvaged by microsurgical replantation and a free combined flap of the subscapular system. This new application of the combined flap allowed the reconstruction of large and separate wounds of the replanted hand, and provided gliding surfaces for tendons.     

前臂及腕部离断伤再植13例分析

目的 探讨前臂及腕部离断伤再植成功及提高术后手功能恢复优良率的要素.方法 对13例前臂及腕部离断伤患者进行再植,予彻底清创、精确修复血管及神经;术后早期进行功能康训练.结果 13例患者再植手全部成活,经6个月～3年的随访,手功能均有不程度恢复.根据陈中伟上肢功能评定标准:Ⅰ级2例,Ⅱ级8例,Ⅲ级3例.结论 彻底的清创、精确的血管及神经修复、术后早期的功能康复训练是前臂及腕部离断伤再植的成功以及手功能良好恢复的重要因素.     

Replantation of the upper extremity in children

Since Malt and McKhann performed the first successful replantation of a traumatically amputated extremity in 1962, there has been a flurry of case reports and articles debating the pros and cons of the various technical aspects of replantation. There have been three case reports of children, under the age of 15, who have successfully undergone replantation of the upper extremity transected through the humerus. The first case report in this article is the fourth. The factors involved in selecting replantation or amputation, and the technical aspects of the operation which are felt to be important, are briefly reviewed. Because the mechanics of limb replantation are rather straightforward, we feel that the pediatric surgeon should be familiar with the preoperative and intraoperative factors to be weighed, and that this alternative to stump closure be carefully considered when one is presented with an upper extremity transection.     

A complex reimplantation of digits: a case report.

In multiple finger amputations, microsurgical reconstruction should concentrate on the thumb, index, and middle fingers. The patient in the case report presented in this paper initially sustained an amputation of all of the digits on the left hand and an amputation of the right thumb. Both thumbs were amputated at the metacarpophalangeal joint. Initial replantation of the left thumb, index, and middle fingers and of the right thumb was carried out. The right thumb replantation failed and, after healing, the right great toe was transferred to the right hand. Subsequent to this, the patient developed useful function of all reconstructed digits. Twenty-one months after the first injury, both thumbs sustained new traumatic amputations 1.0 cm distal to the previous amputations. Both thumbs were replanted again successfully.     

The use of arteriovenous anastomosis for venous drainage during Tamai zone I fingertip replantation

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes for patients sustaining a distal fingertip amputation who underwent replantation witharteriovenous anastomosis for venous drainage over a one year period at our institution. This technique has been utilized when insufficient veins are identified in the amputated part for standard veno-venous anastomosis.MethodsA retrospective study was performed on patients presenting from 2013 to 2014. Guillotine, crush, and avulsion/degloving injuries were included if they underwent fingertip (Tamai Zone I) replantation with arterial anastomosis for vascular inflow and arteriovenous anastomosis for venous drainage. The cases were further classified as Ishikawa subzone I and subzone II.ResultsArteriovenous anastomosis for venous drainage during replantation was used in 45 digits in 35 patients. 41 of the 45 digits underwent successful replantation using this technique (91%). The mean active ROM in the DIP joint of the fingers and in the IP joint of thumbs was 65° and 57°, respectively. Sensory evaluation demonstrated a mean of 6.9 mm s2PD in digits where the digital nerves could be repaired. 11 replanted digits without nerve repair regained some sensory recovery with a mean of 9.6 mm s2PD. 91% of patients were highly satisfied with the appearance of the replanted digits based on Tamai criteria.ConclusionsArteriovenous anastomosis for venous outflow should be considered during zone I fingertip replantation if sufficient veins are not identified in the amputated part. This technique may allow for more routine and successful distal replantation.     

多手指多节段离断再植

目的探讨多手指、多节段断指再植的方法及功能恢复。方法对12例43指113节段予以再植,采用分组协作、“流水式”清创、“逆行法”再植的方法,按先远端、后近端顺序依次再植示、中、环、小指。结果再植指成活率93.0%,平均随访3.5年,手功能评定:优2例,良5例,差4例,劣1例,优良率58.3%。结论多手指、多节段断指再植采用非常规方法,仍能获得较高成活率;手功能恢复较差原因可能有适应证选择、贯穿关节固定、忽视术后康复等有关。     

Treatment of fingertip amputation: comparison of results between microsurgical replantation and pocket principle

In this article, a comparison of replantation using microsurgical replantation (replantation) and the Brent method and its modification (pocket principle) in the treatment of fingertip amputation is reported. As a classification of amputation level, we used Ishikawa's subzone classification of fingertip amputation, and the cases of amputations only in subzone 2 were included in this study. Between these two groups, there was no statistical difference in survival rate, postoperative atrophy, or postoperative range of motion. In terms of sensory recovery, some records were lost and exact study was difficult. But there was no obvious difference between these cases. In our comparison of microsurgical replantation versus the pocket principle in treatment of subzone 2 fingertip amputation, there was no difference in postoperative results. Each method has pros and cons, and the surgeon should choose which technique to use based on his or her understanding of the characteristics of both methods.     

Comparison of functional results of replantation versus prosthesis in a patient with bilateral arm amputation

Function was evaluated in a 12-year-old girl who had traumatic, bilateral proximal humeral amputation at seven years of age. Unilateral successful replantation was performed with subsequent nerve grafts and tendon transfers to improve function. The contralateral side was fitted early after amputation with a body-powered prosthesis. Subjectively, the patient preferred the replanted side for activities of daily living. The range of motion and strength was better overall on the replanted side. Sensory return, although poor when compared with a normal hand, allowed the patient when blindfolded to identify objects placed in the hand. The replanted arm offers better function than the prosthesis for most activities.     

Replantation or revascularisation injuries in children: Incidence,epidemiology, and outcome

Abstract

We studied the epidemiology, incidence, and outcome among children and adolescents admitted for possible replantation or revascularisation of an injured upper extremity during the period 1998–2008. Twenty-nine patients with 38 finger injuries were admitted. Eight of the 29 had a severe amputation injury. The annual rate of all amputations in the referral area of 300 000 children was 0.42/100 000 children/year and total amputation injuries 0.18/100 000 children/year. Most injuries occurred in patients aged 12–15 years. The survival after total amputations was 6/14 and after subtotal amputations 13/15. Mean total active movement after replantation was 84° (n = 5) and after revascularisation 152° (n = 10). Four patients were re-examined in the outpatient department and nine answered a questionnaire. Cold intolerance was reported by most of the patients. Patients’ satisfaction with outcome of treatment was good.     

How to Perform a Below-Knee Amputation

Eventhough modern techniques have improved patient survival and limb salvage rates in patients with critical limb ischaemia and end-stage vascular disease, amputation is sometimes the only possible treatment. In younger patients with traumatic avulsion of a foot, infected gangrene of the foot or a peripheral tumour, amputation is out of discussion and commonly accepted. In older vascular patients, amputation should rather be considered as the starting point for revalidation and rehabilitation than as failure of a revascularization technique. The evolution in prostheses permits a rapid revalidation in most patients. However, an accurate amputation technique is still required to produce a good quality stump allowing early fitting of prosthetics.