title: Distal digital replantation.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Hand surgeons have been hesitant to perform distal digital replantation because of the technical challenges and the perception of a high cost-to-benefit ratio. Recent studies, however, have shown high survival rates and excellent functional and aesthetic results, providing renewed enthusiasm for distal replantation.
  
  
  METHODS
  The authors reviewed the literature and summarize key points regarding the surgical treatment, perioperative care, and outcomes of distal digital replantation. They describe specific techniques and considerations for surgical repair in each of four distal zones as described by Sebastin and Chung.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Zone 1A replantation involves an artery-only anastomosis of a longitudinal pulp artery. Venous anastomosis first becomes possible in zone 1B. Zone 1C involves periarticular amputations where arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint is usually indicated. Repair of the artery, vein, and nerve is technically optimal in zone 1D, where venous anastomosis should be performed. Overall, survival rates for distal digital replantation are similar to those reported for more proximal replantation. The literature reports good outcomes regarding nail salvage, fingertip sensibility, and range of motion, with restoration of length and aesthetic appearance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Distal replantation performed at institutions that specialize in microsurgery and specifically tailored to the level of injury is associated with good survival, function, and patient satisfaction and superior aesthetic outcome. More prospective data are needed to evaluate the cost of treatment, psychological outcomes, and functional outcomes of distal replantation compared with revision amputation.
authors.affiliation: Stanford and Los Angeles, Calif. From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University Hospital and Clinics, and the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles.
authors.forename: Leila
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Jazayeri
authors.forename: Jill Q
authors.initials: JQ
authors.lastname: Klausner
authors.forename: James
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Chang
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005385:Fingers / Q000098:blood supply / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery*; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D008866:Microsurgery; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012092:Replantation / Q000379:methods*