Complications and Salvage of an Ectopically Replanted Thumb

Abstract

The ectopic replantation of a thumb is described after a mutilating hand injury. The case was followed by a series of complications and surgical procedures to treat these complications. Through perseverance and multiple microsurgical procedures the patient attained a functional hand. The patient's psychological and physical course is described.

Great toe transplant versus thumb replant for isolated thumb amputation: Critical analysis of functional outcome

“…15,43 The most common complication was postoperative necrosis or open wound requiring a STSG in 10%. The reexploration rate was 5%.…”

A series of rat segmental forelimb ectopic implantation models

“…Radial vessel in the forearm is an ideal choice for the ectopic implantation as its proper vascular diameter, long pedicle and the great flexibility of reaching to amputated stump or reconstructive primary site 5, 9 . Theoretically, the blood vessel for implantation should be easily accessible and be of similar diameter with the vessels of amputated limb 8 .…”

Ectopic Banking of Amputated Parts: A Clinical Review

“…One group reported on use of a branch of the ulnar artery as a recipient vessel 11 ; others suggested use of the radial artery, often in end-to-end fashion. 5,6,8,9,13,15 Some of these authors cited the use of the radial artery for additional arterial conduit length upon transfer of the part back to its orthotopic position. The contralateral upper extremity has often been selected to keep the part distant from the site of reconstruction and away from mobile joints.…”