Thirty-Year Follow-up of Total Hand Replantation: A Case Report

Abstract

The loss of a limb is a devastating yet relatively common injury with a vast panoply of effects. Beyond the obvious potential for the loss of livelihood are profound social, psychological, and aesthetic consequences. Thus, despite significant improvements in functional prostheses and rehabilitation for traumatic hand amputations, the option for replantation should always be carefully considered. We present a case of a total hand replantation at the level of the wrist performed 30 years ago, which to our knowledge exceeds the longest reported follow-up by 11 years. The excellent outcome observed in this patient demonstrates the importance of presurgical planning and analysis of the amputated segment, the utility of therapy, and the durable functionality of extremity replantation over an extended period.