Managing vascular compromise of hand and digit replantation following traumatic amputation
Nursing review published in Br J Nurs (2018)
Abstract
Hands are anatomically complex and have great social, physical and emotional importance. Hand or digit replantation following traumatic partial or complete amputation is a complex injury for nursing staff to understand and manage. The absence of clear guidance, combined with a lack of consensus in the literature gives rise to ambiguity and insufficient understanding of appropriate and effective management. This article aims to outline nursing care of the patient in the first few days following hand or digit reattachment, particularly focusing on the recognition and management of arterial and venous compromise. Complications must be recognised and acted on quickly to give the best chance of survival so it is essential for nurses to have an accurate understanding of the signs, symptoms and management options of vascular compromise. Leech therapy, also discussed, has long been used as a nonsurgical option in the management of venous congestion and is a simple and minimally invasive method of managing congestion.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Nursing-focused review of vascular compromise recognition and management in hand/digit replantation, including MLT as a minimally invasive option for venous congestion.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
This article outlines nursing care in the early postoperative period following hand or digit replantation, focusing on recognition and management of arterial and venous compromise, and mentions leech therapy as a long-established, simple, and minimally invasive nonsurgical option for managing venous congestion. The article is relevant to ASH's domain insofar as it discusses leech therapy within the context of post-replantation care. However, leech therapy is only briefly mentioned as one of several management options, the article's primary focus is nursing management of vascular compromise broadly, and no detailed data on leech therapy outcomes, protocols, or complications are provided.
Citación
Managing vascular compromise of hand and digit replantation following traumatic amputation.
Spiers E · British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing), 2018
Contexto clínico relacionado
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 26, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026