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Case Reports
. 2005 Nov;87(11):1516-9.
doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.87B11.16512.

The validity of the mangled extremity severity score in the assessment of upper limb injuries

S Togawa  1 , N Yamami, H Nakayama, Y Mano, K Ikegami, S Ozeki
Affiliations
Case Reports

The validity of the mangled extremity severity score in the assessment of upper limb injuries

S Togawa et al. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2005 Nov.

Abstract

The Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) may be used to decide whether to perform amputation in patients with injuries involving a limb. A score of 7 points or higher indicates the need for amputation. We have treated three patients with a MESS of 7 points or higher, in two of which the injured limb was salvaged. This scoring system was originally devised to assess injuries to the lower limb. However, a MESS of 7 points as a justification for amputation does not appear appropriate when assessing injuries to the major vessels in the upper limb.

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