REPLANTATION OF DISTAL SEGMENT OF THE SEVERED FINGERS IN CHILDREN / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

From Nov 1980 to Dec 1983, severed distal segments of fingers were successfully replanted by the aid of surgical microscope in 8 children. The age ranged from 31 months to 12 years. 6 fingers were completely amputated and 2 were incompletely amputated. The level of amputation was situated from distal 1/3 of middle phalanx to the distal inlerphalangeal joints. 46 fresh specimens of fingers were dissected under microscope, and regional anatomy of blood vessels and nerves of distal segment of finger were carefully studied and their calibers measured, providing a useful knowledge for replantation. It was emphasized that meticulous and accurate anastomosis of tiny arteries, and veins with diameters ranging from 0.2 to 0.3mm was the key to success o replantation. Indications for digital replantation, careful debridement under operation microscope, and postoperative management were discussed.