[Reconstructive microsurgery in traumatic amputations of wrist and fingers (authors transl)]

Abstract

A specialised department for vascular microsurgery was established in the Research Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery in 1973. 58 replantations of fingers in 42 patients were made. Total percentage of healing was 52 (30 fingers). Doppler's flowmetry is very useful for the control of microanastomoses of the arteries in fingers. Reconstruction of vessels in fingers was made with an operative microscope (magnification 16--24 times), special microtechnique and 10/0 sutures. Successful replantation is possible even 10--12 hours after severance, it the finger is kept in hypothermia at + 4 degrees C. Rapid admission of the patients to the hospital, i.e. improved information and emergency transport may shorten ischaemic time. The first stage of replantation is the marking of arteries and veins in the finger and in the stump. It is essential to suture not less than 2--3 veins for one artery and nerve. Thorough rehabilitation is of utmost importance to get the best functional results.