[Replantation of segmental destructive amputation of multiple fingers].
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the indication of replantation of destructive amputation of multiple fingers for improvement of the function of injured fingers.


METHODS
From February 1996 to August 1999, 23 amputated fingers in 8 cases were shortened and replanted. The crushed digital bones were fixed by Kirschner wires, flexor tendons repaired by Kessler suture technique, and digital extensor tendons repaired by mattress suture. The arteries and veins were anastomosed in each finger at the ratio of 1 to 2 or 2 to 3. The defect of blood vessels was repaired by free graft of autologous veins in 5 fingers. All of the cases were followed up for 10 to 18 months, and clinical evaluation was performed.


RESULTS
All replanted fingers survived in the 8 cases, with good sensation, two point discrimination of 6 to 12 mm, and satisfied function, such as pinching, grasping and hooking. The fingers were shortened for 2.6 cm in average, ranging from 2.2 cm to 4.0 cm.


CONCLUSIONS
Multiple digits replantation by shortening fingers is beneficial to functional restoration of segmental destructive fingers.
Yang
Z H
ZH
Department of Hand Surgery, Fourth People's Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan Hubei, P. R. China 430033.
Zhou
B G
BG
Peng
Z R
ZR
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000601:surgery*; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D005260:Female; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009104:Multiple Trauma / Q000601:surgery; D012092:Replantation / Q000379:methods*; D013710:Tendons / Q000601:surgery