Clinical study of a reformed non-physiological method for fingertip replantation

Abstract

Objective To develop a new method for replantafion of fingers severed at the distal phalanx level. Methods Nine fingers severed at the level distal to the nail base were replanted.After debridement,the phalanx was shortened and fixed with Kirschner wires.Digital nerves and arteries of both sides were anastomosed under the microscope.More proximally on the non-dominant side,the distal digital artery was anastomosed to the proximal vein to establish non-physiological blood circulation for venous drainage. Results All 9 fingers survived.Follow-up period ranged from 3 to 12 months.Satisfactory appearance,smooth nail and good active range of motion were achieved.Two-point discrimination was between 8 to 10 mm. Conclusion Sacrificing one digital artery to reconstruct venous system in fingertip replantation can effectively increase survival rate. Key words: Finger injuries; Replantation; Microsurgery