J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2001 Dec;36(6):513-517.

Finger Replantation in Children

• Kim JS
• Lee YH
• Nam JS
• Baek GH
• Chung MS

Abstract

PURPOSE
The success rate for the replantation of an amputated digit in children is low. It demands precise anastomosis of vessels and nerves and expert technique. This paper reports upon cases of digital replantation in children.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
From April 1994 to December 1999, 34 amputated digits of 30 patients were replanted. According to the age distribution, there were 18 children under 5 years of age, 5 between 6 and 10, and 7 between 11 and 15. Guillotine type of amputation was dominant and 19 cases were at zone I. End to end anastomosis of the digital artery and dorsal vein, vein graft, and the external bleeding method and epineurial suture were performed.
RESULTS
The overall success rate was 88.2%, in zone I 16/19 cases, in zone II 10/11 cases and zone III 4/4 cases.
CONCLUSION
The rate of survival of the amputated part in children was 88.2%. Although it is difficult to perform anastomosis of small vessels, postoperative physical therapy and the external bleeding method, digital replantation in children is recommended, when feasible, in order to prevent functional and growth disturbances for cosmetic reasons.

Keyword

Children; Digit; Replantation

MeSH Terms

Age Distribution
Amputation
Arteries
Child*
Fingers*
Hemorrhage
Humans
Replantation*
Sutures
Transplants
Veins