A global view of digital replantation and revascularization
Review published in Clin Plast Surg (2020)
Abstract
Survival rates of digital replantation vary in different regions and countries, and Asian surgeons see more challenging cases and have developed some unique methods. Replantation of multiple digits in one or both hands can follow a structure-by-structure method or a digit-by-digit method. For replanting all 10 digits, 3 or 4 teams should be organized. Flow-through flaps, often venous flaps, can be taken from the distal forearm or lower extremity to repair defects of soft tissues and arteries. A pedicled digital artery flap from the adjacent digit can also repair tissue defects and supply blood to the replanted digit.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Summary
A global review notes that digital replantation survival rates vary by region, with Asian surgeons managing challenging cases; multi-digit replantation can follow structure-by-structure or digit-by-digit methods needing 3 to 4 teams for all 10 digits, while flow-through or pedicled flaps repair soft-tissue and vascular defects.
Context
This article provides an overview of digital replantation and revascularization techniques, discussing survival rate variations across regions, multi-digit replantation methods (structure-by-structure vs. digit-by-digit), use of flow-through venous flaps, and pedicled digital artery flaps for tissue and arterial repair. The abstract focuses entirely on microsurgical technical considerations for finger replantation. The abstract makes no mention of leeches, hirudotherapy, or any leech-derived intervention. The scope of the work, as described, is limited to surgical technique and does not address adjunctive or pharmacological therapies.
Citation
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