Transient single-digit ectopic implantation.
Although immediate replantation of an amputated digit is always preferable, mitigating circumstances (such as a severe concomitant injury involving the appropriate recipient neurovascular structures) might preclude such an attempt altogether. However, if these local structures have the potential, following adequate debridement and/or other tissue transfer, to accept this digit later, than an alternative for transient storage for delayed replantation should be considered. The deep inferior epigastric vessels are a recognized convenient site that could provide temporary ectopic revascularization of such a solitary finger. An example of this approach for thumb preservation is presented, although amputation of the hand before performing the secondary transfer unfortunately proved prudent.
Hallock
G G
GG
Division of Plastic Surgery, Allentown Hospital, PA.
D000005:Abdomen / Q000601:surgery; D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000601:surgery*; D003646:Debridement; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012092:Replantation / Q000379:methods*; D016879:Salvage Therapy; D013933:Thumb / Q000601:surgery*; D016042:Transplantation, Heterotopic