Retrospective Study of Unsuccessful Digital and Limb Replantation

Abstract

Forty-nine replantations of amputated digits and limbs on 39 patients were performed during past 4.5 years from November, 1982. The success rate was 63%. A retrospective study was done to clarify the factors which had influence on the success rate. Age, ischemic time and number of platelet had no effect on it. Cause of injury and amputation type (complete or incomplete) seemed to be the factors for the successful replantation. The success rate in clean cut amputation was superior to that of blunt cut or crush amputation. The success rate in incomplete amputation excels that of complete one. The initial failure sign occurred by 72 hours postoperatively and was venous failure in most cases. Fish mouth and milking treatment were not successful when the failure sign occurred. Not a few amputated digits in unfavorable condition for replantation were carried to our hospital.