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. 2018:4:9.
doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2018004. Epub 2018 Mar 16.

Digital replantation in forward surgical units: a cases study

Laurent Mathieu  1 , Michel Levadoux  2 , Emmanuel Soucany de Landevoisin  3 , Tarun J McBride Windsor  4 , Sylvain Rigal  1
Affiliations

Digital replantation in forward surgical units: a cases study

Laurent Mathieu et al. SICOT J. 2018.

Abstract

Introduction: Noncombat-related hand injuries are common in current theatres of operations. Crushing is one of the most frequent mechanisms that may cause traumatic amputations of digits. In the military setting, management of these digital amputations is challenging regarding limitation in microsurgical means in medical treatment facilities and aeromedical evacuation delays out of the combat zone.

Methods: Two cases of digital replantation performed in French forward surgical units are described. The first case was a complete distal amputation of the medius which was successfully replanted in the operating theatre of an aircraft carrier. No complication was observed after evacuation. Functional and aesthetic results were excellent. The second case was a ring finger avulsion revascularized in a role 2 facility in Central African Republic. Unfortunately, revascularization failed due to arterial thrombosis during evacuation.

Results: Digital, hand or more proximal upper extremity replantation may be considered for isolated amputations due to work-related accidents within the combat zone. For a surgeon trained to microsurgery, a microsurgical set and magnification loupes enable to attempt such procedures in austere conditions.

Discussion: The authors propose an algorithm of management in the field according to the type and level of amputation.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Preparation of amputated part (a) and replantation under magnification loupes (b).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Volar (a) and dorsal (b) view of the replanted finger at the follow-up of 4 months.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Volar (a) and dorsal (b) aspect of the ring avulsion injury.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Temporary (a) and definitive (b) proximal amputation of the fourth ray.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Proposed algorithm for management of digital or hand amputations in forward MTFs.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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