The use of a Gore-Tex prosthesis to stabilise venous drainage in an amputated distal forearm replantation

Abstract

Venous drainage disorders are one of the common complications after peripheral limb replantation. We report a middle-aged male patient who underwent a macro-amputation of the distal forearm at the wrist as part of an occupational accident. After successful replantation, a postoperative venous drainage disorder develops, which despite multiple revisions and the installation of a wide venous grafts could not be permanently repaired and endangered the preservation of the hand. The use of a Gore-Tex prosthesis allows a sufficient venous drainage and was the last option to preserve the limb. As far as we know, the available sources give no information about the use of Gore-Tex prostheses in venous drainage restoration in a case of hand replantation. The resulting limb drainage was sufficient, exhibiting both stability and minimal complications in healing. Despite significant advances in surgical technique, replanting the amputated hand in the forearm remains a challenge for the reconstructive surgeons’ community.